simplify

[sim-pluh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

simplified, simplifying 

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

   to simplify a problem.

simplify

/ 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

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of simplify¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of simplify¹

C17: via French from Medieval Latin simplificāre, from Latin simplus simple + facere to make

Example Sentences

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.

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

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

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

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The group said it intends to shrink its workforce by 5,200 employees by 2028 compared with 2024 in a bid to simplify its organizational structure.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“The goal now is to minimize risk by standardizing, sequencing, and simplifying,” Isaac said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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