simplicity

noun

sim·​plic·​i·​ty sim-ˈpli-sə-tē How to pronounce simplicity (audio)
-ˈpli-stē
plural simplicities
Synonyms of simplicity
1
: the state of being simple, uncomplicated, or uncompounded
2
a
: lack of subtlety or penetration : innocence, naivete
3
: freedom from pretense or guile : candor
4
a
: directness of expression : clarity
b
: restraint in ornamentation : austerity

Examples of simplicity in a Sentence

People like the simplicity of the instructions. the simplicity of the music
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.
Downes’ organ swells around her in sweeping, almost flutelike figures, taking the sour tones of her earlier keyboard work and stripping them down to evangelical simplicity. — Emma Madden, Pitchfork, 28 Oct. 2026 According to Houzz Create Calm Through Color The Essence palette from Dutch Boy Paints’ 2027 Color Trends Forecast reflects the intentional simplicity at the heart of Restorative Minimalism. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 27 Oct. 2026 There’s something very strong about that sense of simplicity and purpose. — Alex Eagle, Vogue, 25 Oct. 2026 To the Califa owner, who’d spent more than four decades stewarding the taquería, its success was due to concept, history and simplicity — not the person who happened to be cooking. — Terrence McCoy, Washington Post, 25 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for simplicity

Word History

Etymology

Middle English simplicite, from Anglo-French simplicité, from Latin simplicitat-, simplicitas, from simplic-, simplex

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of simplicity was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Simplicity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simplicity. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

Kids Definition

simplicity

noun
plural simplicities
1
: the quality or state of being simple
2
3
a
: clearness of expression
b
: the quality or state of being plain
4
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