directness

noun

di·​rect·​ness də-ˈrek(t)-nəs How to pronounce directness (audio)
dī-
1
: the character of being accurate in course or aim
2
: strict pertinence : straightforwardness
her directness was disarmingRobin Cook

Examples of directness in a Sentence

his directness is much appreciated by his patients
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 her directness and honesty with players, the former Netherlands international makes decisions based on what is best for the team. Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 27 June 2025 The murder directly and immediately ended Jack’s ability to earn income, and this directness meets the standard for restitution. Miguel Torres, AZCentral.com, 2 May 2025 Her sensational dribble and finish in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Arsenal was a good example of her directness. The Athletic Uk Staff, New York Times, 20 May 2025 The pace and directness of Elanga, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Morgan Gibbs-White and Ola Aina have been at the heart of head coach Nuno Espirito Santo’s ethos: be fiercely difficult to break down, hurt teams with rapier-like counter-attacks. Paul Taylor, New York Times, 8 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for directness

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of directness was in 1598

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Cite this Entry

“Directness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/directness. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.

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