simplify

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

Synonyms of simplify

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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
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.
By building the smaller AP300 around technology already proven in the AP1000, the company hopes to streamline development, simplify future deployments and reduce the complexity of bringing new reactors to market. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 4 Aug. 2026 The first is simplified, more affordable technology to read the entire genome. — William A. Haseltine, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026 The multitasking product simplifies your getting-ready routine since it’s packed with SPF 45 and plenty of skin care heroes. — Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 2 Aug. 2026 Coffee gear brand Mago Maga hopes its latest product can simplify bean roasting for even the most discerning coffee fans – with a little help from AI. — New Atlas, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for simplify

Word History

Etymology

French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificare, from simplus simple

First Known Use

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
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Cite this Entry

“Simplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simplify. Accessed 5 Aug. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on simplify

Nglish: Translation of simplify for Spanish Speakers

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