complexity

noun

com·​plex·​i·​ty kəm-ˈplek-sə-tē How to pronounce complexity (audio)
käm-
plural complexities
1
: something complex
the complexities of the murder trial
2
: the quality or state of being complex
the complexity of the contract

Examples of complexity in a Sentence

He was impressed by the complexity of the music. The diagram illustrates the complexity of the cell's structure. He doesn't grasp the complexity of the situation.
Recent Examples on the Web The complexity of the issue was voiced by Aimee Douglas, 34, who works in tech sales and lives in Midtown Manhattan with her husband. Nate Schweber, New York Times, 6 June 2024 Following her discussion, a diverse panel of experts examines the high costs of constructing low and moderate-income housing and the complexities of relocating people to shelters amidst community opposition, offering a comprehensive view of the state’s critical homelessness challenge. David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 June 2024 That includes reducing the complexity of plastic packaging, limiting the type of materials in packaging and improving recycling collection systems. Nicole Blanchard, Idaho Statesman, 5 June 2024 With emotional courage and relentless determination, Scorpio uncovers all that is hidden beneath the surface while teaching us how to embrace the complexities of our spiritual journey. Valerie Mesa, Peoplemag, 31 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for complexity 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'complexity.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

complex entry 2 + -ity, perhaps after French complexité

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of complexity was in 1661

Dictionary Entries Near complexity

Cite this Entry

“Complexity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/complexity. Accessed 13 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

complexity

noun
com·​plex·​i·​ty kəm-ˈplek-sət-ē How to pronounce complexity (audio)
käm-
plural complexities
1
: something complex
the complexities of the English language
2
: the quality or state of being complex

More from Merriam-Webster on complexity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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