simplicity

noun

sim·​plic·​i·​ty sim-ˈpli-sə-tē 

-ˈpli-stē

plural simplicities

1

: the state of being simple, uncomplicated, or uncompounded

2

a

: lack of subtlety or penetration : innocence, naiveté

b

: folly, silliness

3

: freedom from pretense or guile : candor

4

a

: directness of expression : clarity

b

: restraint in ornamentation : austerity

Synonyms

• plainness
• unsophistication

Examples of simplicity in a Sentence

People like the simplicity of the instructions.

the simplicity of the music

Recent Examples on the Web

With its mashup of casual, work, sport and activewear references, Blurred Lines sharply contrasts the crispness and simplicity of Artist’s GF. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 20 June 2024

Yes | Time Span: 12 months | Features: Notes boxes, simplicity tips, tabs The Bottom Line After surveying our staff, our Best Overall pick is the Happy Planner Vertical Layout Planner and our Best Budget pick is the Blue Sky Professional Weekly Monthly Planning Calendar. —Moriah Mason, Southern Living, 14 June 2024

While developer Colossal Order's other fixes feel almost elegant in their simplicity, this one is a bit more grubby, like real life. —Kevin Purdy, Ars Technica, 13 June 2024

Stunning in its simplicity and attention to detail, the biophilic lobby — which opens onto a central courtyard teeming with greenery, water, and rocks — features stone floors, light wood, and custom artwork. —Lindsay Cohn, Travel + Leisure, 6 June 2024

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

Phrases Containing simplicity

• for simplicity's sake
• for the sake of simplicity
• simplicity itself

Kids Definition

simplicity

noun

sim·​plic·​i·​ty sim-ˈplis-ət-ē 

plural simplicities

1

: the quality or state of being simple

2

: honesty, straightforwardness

3

a

: clearness of expression

b

: the quality or state of being plain

4

: folly sense 1, silliness