complexity

noun

com·​plex·​i·​ty kəm-ˈplek-sə-tē How to pronounce complexity (audio)
käm-
plural complexities
1
: something complex
the complexities of the murder trial
2
: the quality or state of being complex
the complexity of the contract

Examples of complexity in a Sentence

He was impressed by the complexity of the music. The diagram illustrates the complexity of the cell's structure. He doesn't grasp the complexity of the situation.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The sheer complexity of a deal, which will take years to complete and require multiagency input, forced Trump’s first treasury secretary to shelve their sale, and experts believe the same hurdles pose significant challenges this time around, too. Haisten Willis, The Washington Examiner, 26 May 2025 Through their compelling storytelling, today’s leaders can gain valuable insights into the complexities of human behavior and take solace in the enduring challenges of leadership. Anjali Chaudhry, Forbes.com, 25 May 2025 The way the news of the new pope’s heritage was made public speaks to the complexity of discussions of race in the U.S., especially in this era. Rebecca R. Bibbs, Chicago Tribune, 25 May 2025 The distance to exoplanets, the faintness of signals, and the complexity of atmospheres mean distinguishing between molecules that differ by just one atom is extremely challenging. Victoria Corless, Space.com, 25 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for complexity

Word History

Etymology

complex entry 2 + -ity, perhaps after French complexité

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of complexity was in 1661

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Complexity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/complexity. Accessed 30 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

complexity

noun
com·​plex·​i·​ty kəm-ˈplek-sət-ē How to pronounce complexity (audio)
käm-
plural complexities
1
: something complex
the complexities of the English language
2
: the quality or state of being complex

More from Merriam-Webster on complexity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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