Simplify

Part of speech: verb

Pronunciation: /ˈsɪmplɪfaɪ/

Definitions

1. To make something easier to understand or do by reducing its complexity or removing unnecessary details
2. To reduce the intricacy of a concept, thereby enhancing understanding and accessibility while eliminating unnecessary details or complications
3. To lessen the complexity of a task or idea by clarifying its elements and removing extraneous components for improved comprehension and usability

Etymology: "Simplify" is a straightforward formation: it joins "simple" with the verb-forming suffix "-ify," which comes ultimately from Latin "-ificare," a suffix meaning "to make" or "to render." The stem "simple" entered English from Old French and carried the sense of "unmixed" or "single" before it ever meant "uncomplicated." Put together, "simplify" literally means "to make simple." The verb itself was borrowed from the French "simplifier," which is built the same way from "simple" and the same "-ifier" suffix. English took the whole word across rather than building it from parts at home, so its structure is French in origin even though both pieces are old Latin material.

Synonyms: clarify, streamline, reduce

Antonyms: complicate, confuse