outspoken

adjective

out·​spo·​ken ˌau̇t-ˈspō-kən How to pronounce outspoken (audio)
Synonyms of outspokennext
1
: direct and open in speech or expression : frank
outspoken in his criticism— Current Biography
2
: spoken or expressed without reserve
his outspoken advocacy of gun control
outspokenly adverb
outspokenness
ˌau̇t-ˈspō-kən-nəs How to pronounce outspoken (audio)
noun

Synonyms

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Examples of outspoken in a Sentence

She has been an outspoken advocate of women's rights throughout her life. an outspoken and controversial radio host She's very outspoken about political issues.
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.
Known for his outspoken floor speeches and frequent criticism of bipartisan bills, May had also built a reputation as a disruptive political consultant, backing challengers against sitting GOP incumbents. — Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025 Thompson, who turned 31 in April, was a longtime leader of the Panthers’ locker room, known for his energy, quickness and outspoken nature. — Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 10 June 2025 Former foundation board members Susan Burns and Larry Geimer were especially outspoken, repeatedly introducing the topic at public board meetings. — Alice Herman, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 June 2025 Key Background Since Musk announced his purchase of Twitter (now X) in 2022, Tesla stock has frequently faced downward pressure as its top decisionmaker and shareholder Musk became increasingly outspoken on politics to much controversy. — Derek Saul, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for outspoken

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1808, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of outspoken was circa 1808

Rhymes for outspoken

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Browse Nearby Words

outspin
outspoken
outsport
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Cite this Entry

“Outspoken.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outspoken. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

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Kids Definition

outspoken

adjective
out·​spo·​ken au̇t-ˈspō-kən How to pronounce outspoken (audio)
: direct and open in speech or expression : frank
outspokenness
-kən-nəs How to pronounce outspoken (audio)
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on outspoken

Nglish: Translation of outspoken for Spanish Speakers

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