open-ended

adjective

open-end·​ed ˌō-pən-ˈen-dəd How to pronounce open-ended (audio)
: not rigorously fixed: such as
a
: adaptable to the developing needs of a situation
b
: permitting or designed to permit spontaneous and unguided responses
open-endedness noun

Examples of open-ended in a Sentence

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 lyrics remain open-ended and don’t necessarily contain a narrative, Tenenbaum notes. Abigail Lee, Variety, 13 May 2025 Of the position groups on the roster, the secondary feels the most open-ended heading into OTAs. Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 13 May 2025 The format of Love on the Spectrum gives the series an advantage: The open-ended nature of its encounters, combined with its depictions of cast members’ growth and support systems, gets the audience invested in their dating lives on a far deeper level than most dating shows. Joe Reid, Vulture, 10 May 2025 Known for its hands-on STEM and sensory toys, the company's open-ended learning tools are frequently used in schools and therapy settings alike—and with good reason. Jennifer Jay Palumbo, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for open-ended

Word History

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of open-ended was in 1825

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Cite this Entry

“Open-ended.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open-ended. Accessed 19 May. 2025.

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