simplicity

noun

sim·​plic·​i·​ty sim-ˈpli-sə-tē How to pronounce simplicity (audio)
-ˈpli-stē
plural simplicities
1
: the state of being simple, uncomplicated, or uncompounded
2
a
: lack of subtlety or penetration : innocence, naiveté
3
: freedom from pretense or guile : candor
4
a
: directness of expression : clarity
b
: restraint in ornamentation : austerity

Examples of simplicity in a Sentence

People like the simplicity of the instructions. the simplicity of the music
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Resembling in color a smooth pebble after heavy rains, the calfskin leather holder has but one compartment and one back pocket — taking it back to the basics and accentuating simplicity. Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2025 Each jurisdiction is weighing its own trade-offs between administrative simplicity, fiscal integrity, and enforcement capacity. Aleksandra Bal, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025 That simplicity feels so apt for this show, There's enough here: The production is simple and sweet, while Jonas and Warren exude a certain magnetism. Shania Russell, EW.com, 7 Apr. 2025 When the crisis hit, O’Neil lacked the experience or simplicity of message to manage it. Steve Madeley, New York Times, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for simplicity

Word History

Etymology

Middle English simplicite, from Anglo-French simplicité, from Latin simplicitat-, simplicitas, from simplic-, simplex

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of simplicity was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Simplicity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simplicity. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

simplicity

noun
sim·​plic·​i·​ty sim-ˈplis-ət-ē How to pronounce simplicity (audio)
plural simplicities
1
: the quality or state of being simple
2
3
a
: clearness of expression
b
: the quality or state of being plain
4

More from Merriam-Webster on simplicity

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