simplify

1 of 2

verb

sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce simplify (audio)
simplified; simplifying
Synonyms of simplifynext

transitive verb

: to make simple or simpler: such as
a
: to reduce to basic essentials
b
: to diminish in scope or complexity : streamline
was urged to simplify management procedures
c
: to make more intelligible : clarify
simplification
ˌsim-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce simplify (audio)
noun
simplifier
ˈsim-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce simplify (audio)
noun

simplifier

2 of 2

noun

sim·​pli·​fi·​er ˈsimpləˌfī(ə)r How to pronounce simplifier (audio)
-īə
plural -s
: one that simplifies

Synonyms of simplify

Relevance

Verb

See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

Examples of simplify in a Sentence

Verb Microwave ovens have simplified cooking. The new software should simplify the process. The forms have been simplified.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
As environments become more complex, integrators and their customers are looking for partners who can simplify that complexity and deliver measurable outcomes. — Dirk Naylor, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026 For households seeking to simplify their routines while making greener choices, vinegar is a win-win solution. — Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2026 That could help simplify the internal architecture of future unmanned aircraft. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 31 Aug. 2026 Clear one practical snag, simplify one expectation, and give your body enough support to keep the day balanced. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for simplify

Word History

Etymology

Verb

French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificare, from simplus simple

First Known Use

Verb

1750, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of simplify was in 1750

Rhymes for simplify

See All Rhymes for simplify

Browse Nearby Words

simplifier
simplify
simpling
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Simplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simplify. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

simplify

verb
sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce simplify (audio)
simplified; simplifying
: to make simple or simpler
simplification
ˌsim-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce simplify (audio)
noun
simplifier
ˈsim-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce simplify (audio)
noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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