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

• simplificative adjective
• simplification noun
• 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

Otto recommends merging the three brokerage accounts into one account focused on a home purchase to simplify things and save on fees.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

In a recognition of this pressure, the company’s new chairman Albert Manifold told staff in early October that it must act with urgency to simplify its overly complex portfolio.

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To simplify the process, the researchers tested a second version using killed tumor cells, called tumor lysate, derived directly from the cancer itself.

Read more on Science Daily

This deal simplifies the group and removes an underperforming distraction, he says, referring to SWP, which Schroders has previously carried on its balance sheet at a 200 million pound valuation.

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For starters, the company is “pursuing a tight, vertically integrated approach that appears to bring a more simplified, smaller design ethos to market,” analysts wrote.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

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