simplify

American  

[sim-pluh-fahy] / ˈsɪm pləˌfaɪ /

verb (used with object)

simplified, simplifying

1. to make less complex or complicated; make plainer or easier.

   to simplify a problem.

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simplify British  

/ ˈsɪmplɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to make less complicated, clearer, or easier

2. maths to reduce (an equation, fraction, etc) to a simpler form by cancellation of common factors, regrouping of terms in the same variable, etc

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Other Word Forms

• nonsimplification noun
• simplification noun
• simplificative adjective
• simplificator noun
• simplifier noun
• supersimplify verb (used with object)
• unsimplified adjective
• unsimplifying adjective

Etymology

Origin of simplify

First recorded in 1645–55; from French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificāre “to make simple,” equivalent to Latin simpli-, combining form of simplus simple + -ficāre -fy

Example Sentences

Newell Brands has been waging a turnaround since 2023, seeking in part to raise performance standards, simplify processes and streamline overhead.

From The Wall Street Journal

Cranach's work drew on medieval mapping traditions where Israel appeared as long, narrow strips of land, reflecting earlier reliance on the 1st century AD Jewish historian Josephus, who simplified conflicting biblical descriptions.

From Science Daily

Last week, India announced it would implement what many say are its most far-reaching economic reforms in decades - compressing 29 federal laws that regulated labour into four simplified codes.

From BBC

But now, we have really refined down the descriptors—we haven’t taken the poetry out of it entirely; we’ve simplified it.

From The Wall Street Journal

The simplified shape is the kind you might see on a Christmas card or a stamp.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• clarify
• cut down
• facilitate
• reduce
• shorten
• streamline