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 The fight between good and evil has an appealing simplicity, even in a town as filled with gray areas as Gotham. Need a break? Kelly Lawler, USA TODAY, 1 Aug. 2024 Shrestha’s ‘White T Series,’ which features celebrities in simple white t-shirts, has become particularly iconic, capturing the essence of stars like Oprah Winfrey with striking simplicity. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 30 July 2024 Merritt's Grill Merritt's is proof that sometimes simplicity wins out. Lucille Sherman, Axios, 29 July 2024 The simplicity and casual nature of the bar program has allowed Douthard to focus primarily on the venue’s ability to build and unite communities. Lyndsay C. Green, Detroit Free Press, 29 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for simplicity 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'simplicity.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near simplicity

Cite this Entry

“Simplicity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simplicity. Accessed 20 Aug. 2024.

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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