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 Stunning in its simplicity and attention to detail, the biophilic lobby — which opens onto a central courtyard teeming with greenery, water, and rocks — features stone floors, light wood, and custom artwork. Lindsay Cohn, Travel + Leisure, 6 June 2024 Elliot Page Releases First Chapter of 'Pageboy' Memoir: 'Grateful to Be Here - and Alive' (Exclusive) Buy Now 33 of 35 'Me' by Elton John The simplicity of the title says it all: The first and only official autobiography of the Rocket Man himself is all about his life and career. Lizz Schumer, Peoplemag, 30 May 2024 Based on the charcoal sketches’ simplicity and naive finesse, researchers have attributed them to children. Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 29 May 2024 Its time-capsule simplicity was part of its charm, and Holbrook’s goal was to modernize the home, adding two bedrooms and bathrooms, new windows and doors, all while keeping as much of its rustic appeal as possible. Christine Lennon, Sunset Magazine, 15 May 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 11 Jun. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!