simplify

verb sim·pli·fy \ ˈsim-plə-ˌfī \

Updated on: 1 Dec 2017

Definition of simplify

simplified; simplifying

transitive verb

: to make simple or simpler: such as

a : to reduce to basic essentials

b : to diminish in scope or complexity : streamline

was urged to simplify management procedures

c : to make more intelligible : clarify

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simplification

play \ˌsim-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən\ noun

—

simplifier

play \ˈsim-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r\ noun

See simplify defined for English-language learners

See simplify defined for kids

Examples of simplify in a Sentence

Microwave ovens have simplified cooking.
The new software should simplify the process.
The forms have been simplified.

Recent Examples of simplify from the Web

Meanwhile, the Republican plan to simplify the tax code contains some unexpected complications and tax increases, many of which stem from its centerpiece: a major corporate tax cut.

— rosa inocencio smith, The Atlantic, "The Atlantic Daily: ‘One of the Most American Stories I Have Ever Heard’," 3 Nov. 2017
Proponents of eliminating the incentive say the government shouldn't pick one technology over another, or should cut most tax credits to simplify the overall code and lower rates.

— nathan bomey, USA TODAY, "$7,500 electric car tax credit goes away under GOP plan. Not good for Tesla.," 2 Nov. 2017
Among those bold steps was a decision to suspend its quarterly dividend beginning in the fourth quarter of 2017 and expand its plan to simplify the business.

— kirsten korosec, Fortune, "Mattel Sales Plummet As Toys R Us Bankruptcy Takes Its Toll," 26 Oct. 2017
The child tax credit would be increased and the tax system would be simplified; most Americans would be able to file their income taxes on a postcard, according to the plan.

— marcy gordon, The Christian Science Monitor, "President Trump promises to preserve 401(k) structure," 25 Oct. 2017
In any effort to simplify the tax code, some constituencies that already benefit from loopholes or breaks are bound to be hurt.

— jonathan s. tobin, National Review, "Trump Is Right about 401(k) Contribution Limits," 23 Oct. 2017
In his remarks to the business group — as well as to reporters afterward — Ryan said cutting and simplifying taxes would help boost the economy.

— patrick marley, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Paul Ryan doesn't want to restore Obamacare subsidies," 16 Oct. 2017
This isn't the industry's first attempt to simplify film organization, viewing, and purchasing for digital users.

— valentina palladino, Ars Technica, "Movies Anywhere: Watch all your Amazon, Google, and iTunes titles in one place," 12 Oct. 2017
Convenience comes in many forms, and a slow-cooker can simplify your life in more ways than an eight-hour cook time.

— sarah digregorio, SELF, "7 Smart Slow-Cooker Tricks That Make Everything Taste Better," 8 Oct. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'simplify.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of simplify

French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificare, from simplus simple

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First Known Use: 1759

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simplify Synonyms

Synonyms

streamline

Antonyms

complex, complexify, complicate, perplex, sophisticate

Related Words

dumb down, oversimplify; prune, strip (down), trim; purify, refine

Near Antonyms

elaborate

SIMPLIFY Defined for English Language Learners

simplify

verb

Definition of simplify for English Language Learners

: to make (something) easier to do or understand

SIMPLIFY Defined for Kids

simplify

verb sim·pli·fy \ ˈsim-plə-ˌfī \

Definition of simplify for Students

simplified; simplifying

: to make simple or simpler : make easier

Learn More about simplify

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for simplify Spanish Central: Translation of simplify Nglish: Translation of simplify for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of simplify for Arabic speakers

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Definition of simplify

simplification

simplifier

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Examples of simplify in a Sentence

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Origin and Etymology of simplify

simplify Synonyms

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Words

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SIMPLIFY Defined for English Language Learners

simplify

Definition of simplify for English Language Learners

SIMPLIFY Defined for Kids

simplify

Definition of simplify for Students

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