simplicity Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the quality of being simple or uncompounded
    simpleness.
    • the simplicity of a crystal
  2. noun a lack of penetration or subtlety
    simple mindedness; simpleness.
    • they took advantage of her simplicity
  3. noun absence of affectation or pretense
    simmpleness.
  4. noun freedom from difficulty or hardship or effort
    ease; simpleness; easiness.
    • he rose through the ranks with apparent ease
    • they put it into containers for ease of transportation
    • the very easiness of the deed held her back
  5. noun lack of ornamentation
    restraint; simpleness; chasteness.
    • the room was simply decorated with great restraint

WordNet

Sim*plic"i*ty noun
Etymology
F. simplicité, L. simplicitas. See Simple.
Definitions
  1. The quality or state of being simple, unmixed, or uncompounded; as, the simplicity of metals or of earths.
  2. The quality or state of being not complex, or of consisting of few parts; as, the simplicity of a machine.
  3. Artlessness of mind; freedom from cunning or duplicity; lack of acuteness and sagacity.
    Marquis Dorset, a man, for his harmless simplicity neither misliked nor much regarded. Hayward.
    In wit a man; simplicity a child. Pope.
  4. Freedom from artificial ornament, pretentious style, or luxury; plainness; as, simplicity of dress, of style, or of language; simplicity of diet; simplicity of life.
  5. Freedom from subtlety or abstruseness; clearness; as, the simplicity of a doctrine; the simplicity of an explanation or a demonstration.
  6. Weakness of intellect; silliness; folly.
    How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning? Prov. i. 22.

Webster 1913