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

But the liver had been seared to perfection in lard and expertly seasoned, so the dish was a triumph of simplicity. —Austin Bush, Travel + Leisure, 23 Nov. 2024

Additionally, the burial will no longer involve the use of three coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak, marking a significant departure from tradition in favor of simplicity. —Matt Robison, Newsweek, 20 Nov. 2024

There is a word for this in Japanese, shibumi, that denotes an aesthetic of austere simplicity and effortless perfection, of doing the most with the least. —Bailey Trela, Vulture, 19 Nov. 2024

This approach is appealing due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, but has notable limitations. —Michael Khouw, CNBC, 4 Nov. 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