1
a
: nothing more than : only, merely, or just
Simply add water to the mix and stir.
Simply click on the computer icon and follow the directions.
If he continues to bother you, simply ignore him.
You can order new checks simply by calling or going online.
It is simply a matter of time before something goes wrong.
b
: without any question
—used to stress the simple truth of a description or statement
That is simply [=just] not true.
The opera was simply marvelous.
She simply can't sing.
I simply could not decide which one I wanted.
She simply does not understand the work that is involved.
There is simply not enough time to visit everyone.
We want to buy the car, but we simply can't afford it.
He is, quite simply, one of the best players ever to play the game.
Quite simply, the countryside is beautiful.
2
a
: in a way that is clear and understandable
The instructions are simply written.
b
: in a way that is plain or not fancy or complicated
She dresses simply.
simply drawn figures
He lived simply on the farm.
c
: in a way that is direct and uses few words
The diner is called simply "Joe's."
"Sorry, I can't help you," he said simply.
The problem, put simply, is money.
Simply put, the movie was horrible.
Simply speaking, he's not capable of doing the job.
Cite this Entry
“Simply.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/simply. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
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