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

This change, among others, was implemented to simplify and focus on improving the author’s experience and the ultimate product – a beautiful book. —Serenity Gibbons, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024

Su’s turnaround plan had three steps: build great products, focus on customer relationships, and simplify the business. —Billy Perrigo, TIME, 10 Dec. 2024

The key to merriment this season is to simplify your holiday gifting approach. —Adam Mansuroglu, WWD, 8 Dec. 2024

The Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday finalized recommendations aimed at simplifying the process for approving medical devices that use artificial intelligence. —Maya Goldman, Axios, 4 Dec. 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