simplify

verb

sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī 

simplified; simplifying

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 

noun

simplifier

ˈsim-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

noun

Synonyms

• streamline

Examples of simplify in a Sentence

Microwave ovens have simplified cooking.

The new software should simplify the process.

The forms have been simplified.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adobe also frequently updates Photoshop with generative AI features, innovative capabilities that simplify difficult tasks, and support for new formats. —PCMAG, 12 Nov. 2024

Todorovic says the company’s goal is to empower creators by offering a tool that simplifies, rather than automates, the filmmaking process. —Charlie Fink, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

Parking is simplified, maneuvering through traffic and touring the neighborhood while low to the ground makes the experience less stressful. —James Raia, The Mercury News, 3 Nov. 2024

The conspiracy, Figueiredo and her colleagues realized, stems from the existence of a hidden structure, one that could potentially simplify the complex business of understanding what’s going on at the base level of reality. —Charlie Wood, WIRED, 3 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificare, from simplus simple

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

simplify

verb

sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī 

simplified; simplifying

: to make simple or simpler

simplification

ˌsim-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

noun

simplifier

ˈsim-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

noun