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 environmentalism
outspokenly adverb
outspokenness
ˌau̇t-ˈspō-kən-nəs How to pronounce outspoken (audio)
noun

Synonyms of outspoken

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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 colorful jackets and outspoken style, Ives even launched his own clothing line last year. — Yun Li, CNBC, 1 July 2026 The three-time All-Star, now with the Houston Astros, had gained a reputation as an outspoken advocate for analytics. — Dennis Lin, New York Times, 25 June 2026 Her outspoken actions continued as the Reagan administration scrutinized her show and other adult programming. — Kalia Richardson, USA Today, 1 July 2026 Relations soured steadily over his outspoken criticism of Israeli policies toward Palestinians. — Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026 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 7 Jul. 2026.

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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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