simplify
Americanverb (used with object)
verb
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to make less complicated, clearer, or easier
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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
Derived Forms
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simplificatornoun
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unsimplifiedadjective
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simplifiernoun
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nonsimplificationnoun
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simplificationnoun
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unsimplifyingadjective
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simplificativeadjective
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supersimplifyverb (used with object)
Conjugated Forms
Present
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have simplifiedperfect
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has simplifiedperfect 3rd person singular
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has been simplifyingperfect progressive 3rd person singular
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have been simplifyingperfect progressive
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is simplifyingprogressive 3rd person singular
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simplifiessingular 3rd person
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simplifyingparticiple
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am simplifyingprogressive 1st person singular
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are simplifyingprogressive
Past
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had simplifiedperfect
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had been simplifyingperfect progressive
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was simplifyingprogressive singular
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simplifiedparticiple
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were simplifyingprogressive plural
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simplifiedsimple
Future
Etymology
Origin of simplify
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
Explanation
To simplify something is to make it less complex and easier to understand. When you simplify, you make things clearer. Since simple things have less parts or complexity, when you simplify, you're eliminating the clutter and reducing something to its essence. For example, if a speech is long and confusing, the person giving it might need to simplify their ideas: make them clearer. Teachers are good at simplifying; they take complex ideas and make them easier for students to understand. If you don't understand what someone is telling you, ask them to simplify it.
Vocabulary lists containing simplify
Academic Vocabulary: Core Tier 2 Words, List 8
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Algebra
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Algebra
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said abolishing Healthwatch England was part of plans "to simplify the patient safety landscape".
From BBC • May 30, 2026
The additives lower the temperature at which the glass softens and make it flow more easily when heated, which could simplify manufacturing.
From Science Daily • May 22, 2026
She added that she has been able to simplify the situation by trusting the process the coaching staff has implemented for the team.
From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026
The company launched ‘Project Fresh’ to improve value, simplify promotions, and remodel restaurants, planning to close 5% to 6% of U.S. stores.
From Barron's • May 20, 2026
To simplify considerably, helper-T cells occur in two main types, one that targets microorganisms and one that targets parasites.
From "1491" by Charles C. Mann
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
