noun
-
the state or quality of being intricate or complex
-
something intricate or complex; complication
Other Word Forms
- intercomplexity noun
- overcomplexity noun
- supercomplexity noun
Etymology
Origin of complexity
Explanation
Is the movie simple or does it have lots of plot twists and intricate relationships between characters? If the latter is true, the movie's complexity makes it hard to understand. When you see the word complexity, think of something with a lot of pieces, something not easy to put into words or understand. Things that can have complexity include: the events leading up to the American Civil War, a broth made with many ingredients, your relationship with your parents. Complexity is the opposite of simplicity. When something has a lot of complexity, you say it is complex. When it has very little complexity, it is simple.
Vocabulary lists containing complexity
List 2
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Nothing But the Truth
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"Why Read Shakespeare?" Vocabulary from the argument
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
To add to the complexity, I am terrified of flying, so we would likely need to book a transatlantic cruise to and from Europe.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026
Adding another layer of complexity, is the onus that places on witness testimony from so-called "brothers in arms".
From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026
While AI disruption looms for some companies, these experts argue that the complexity of security platforms provides a buffer for established players.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026
Reopening Hormuz, a factor Trump has previously insisted is both unnecessary and important to American interests, adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing talks, which include multiple parties and dozens of mediators.
From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026
And now that she was doing something difficult and familiar and never quite predictable, namely lying, she felt a sort of mastery again, the same sense of complexity and control that the alethiometer gave her.
From "The Golden Compass" by Philip Pullman
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
