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

Though limited in services like in-room dining, the cost-effective hotel prioritizes simplicity over luxury. —Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 7 Dec. 2024

For bags that prioritize simplicity with minimal frills on the inside, consider Leatherology’s Framed Toiletry Bag. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 6 Dec. 2024

Within a matter of minutes, lives can be changed through donating to one or more of these organizations using the simplicity of a vending machine, the confidence of knowing 100% of the donation goes to the charity, and that the donation is directed for a specific purpose. —Eric C. Shuster, Austin American-Statesman, 6 Dec. 2024

All of them are on journeys of discovery, on pilgrimages to purity, simplicity, or humility, understood not in dogmatic terms but in the living experience of human fragmentation and wholeness, suffering and redemption, pride and love. —Ben Woollard, JSTOR Daily, 4 Dec. 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