simplicity

[sim-plis-i-tee]

noun

plural

simplicities 

1. the state, quality, or an instance of being simple.

2. freedom from complexity, intricacy, or division into parts.

   an organism of great simplicity.

3. absence of luxury, pretentiousness, ornament, etc.; plainness.

   a life of simplicity.

4. freedom from deceit or guile; sincerity; artlessness; naturalness.

   a simplicity of manner.

   Synonyms: honesty, directness, candor

5. lack of mental acuteness or shrewdness.

   Politics is not a field for simplicity about human nature.

simplicity

/ sɪmˈplɪsɪtɪ /

noun

1. the quality or condition of being simple

Other Word Forms

• nonsimplicity noun
• oversimplicity noun
• supersimplicity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of simplicity¹

1325–75; Middle English simplicite (< Old French simplicité ) < Latin simplicitās simpleness, equivalent to simplici- (stem of simplex ) simplex + -tās -ty ²

Example Sentences

Judges said his work had "a deceptive simplicity" and was a "brave risk-taking painting" with "nuanced humour".

From BBC

The beauty of pickle lemonade lies in its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

From Salon

“The drawings have great fluidity and, in the best sense of the word, great simplicity,” John said.

From Los Angeles Times

Carson Palmer had gotten used to the simplicities of football being done for him.

From Los Angeles Times

Coleman said that, for simplicity’s sake, he’s assuming that California will be able to redistrict five Republicans out of office in the midterms, effectively canceling out the gain Republicans are set to make in Texas.

From Salon

Related Words

• candor 
• clarity 
• directness www.thesaurus.com
• integrity 
• modesty 
• purity 
• restraint 
• unity