complexity

noun

com·​plex·​i·​ty kəm-ˈplek-sə-tē How to pronounce complexity (audio)
käm-
plural complexities
1
: something complex
the complexities of the murder trial
2
: the quality or state of being complex
the complexity of the contract

Examples of complexity in a Sentence

He was impressed by the complexity of the music. The diagram illustrates the complexity of the cell's structure. He doesn't grasp the complexity of the situation.
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.
Seven Key Themes for 2025 Here are the transformative conversations shaping 2025, with actionable insights for family offices navigating complexity and seeking opportunity. Francois Botha, Forbes, 15 Dec. 2024 These differing results highlight the complexity of understanding sugar's role in cancer development and suggest that further investigation is needed to reconcile these findings. Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 14 Dec. 2024 The first thing to understand in order to grasp the complexity of this production is that four different versions of Macondo were created from scratch to maintain authenticity over the course of time. Fernanda Pérez Sánchez, Vogue, 14 Dec. 2024 The chief downsides of annuities include their overall complexity and the relatively high commission fees, which can eat into your income. Liz Knueven, CNBC, 13 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for complexity 

Word History

Etymology

complex entry 2 + -ity, perhaps after French complexité

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of complexity was in 1661

Dictionary Entries Near complexity

Cite this Entry

“Complexity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/complexity. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

complexity

noun
com·​plex·​i·​ty kəm-ˈplek-sət-ē How to pronounce complexity (audio)
käm-
plural complexities
1
: something complex
the complexities of the English language
2
: the quality or state of being complex

More from Merriam-Webster on complexity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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