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
Experts who are part of consultations expect the new policy to lay down clear and consistent rules, which will also help the industry overcome challenges around land acquisition and simplify a fragmented approval process. — Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 22 Oct. 2026 All scanners and vehicles should have compatible ports, simplifying the connection. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026 Its modular approach is intended to simplify integration while avoiding major modifications to the host vehicle. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 21 Oct. 2026 Jettly Jettly was designed to simplify the act of chartering a private plane. — Debra Kamin, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 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
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