simple

simple [sim′pəl]

adj.

simpler, simplest [OFr < L simplus < IE * sṃplos < bases * sem-, one + * -plo-, -fold: see DOUBLE]

1. having or consisting of only one part, feature, substance, etc.; not compounded or complex; single

2. having few parts or features; not complicated or involved [a simple pattern]

3. easy to do, solve, or understand, as a task, question, etc.

4. without additions or qualifications; mere; bare [the simple facts]

5.

a) not ornate; unembellished; unadorned [simple clothes]

b) not luxurious or elegant; plain [simple tastes]

6. pure; unadulterated

7. without guile or deceit; innocent; artless

8.

a) without ostentation or affectation; natural

b) lacking sophistication; naive

9. of low rank or position; specif.,

a) humble; lowly

b) common; ordinary

10. lacking significance; unimportant

11.

a) having or showing little sense or reasoning ability; easily misled or deceived; stupid or foolish

b) uneducated or ignorant

12. Bot.

a) consisting of one piece; whole

b) not branched

c) developing from a single pistil or carpel [a simple fruit]

13. Chem.

a) elementary

b) unmixed

14. Law unconditional; absolute [in fee simple]

15. Zool. not divided into or made up of parts; not compounded [a simple eye]

n.

1. a person who is ignorant or easily misled

2. something having only one part, substance, etc.

3. Archaic

a) a medicinal herb

b) a medicine made from such a plant

4. Archaic a person of humble position

SYN.- EASY

simpleness

n.