Main Entry: ¹open

Pronunciation: \ˈō-pən\

Function: adjective

1 a : not covered, enclosed, or scabbed over <an open lesion> <an open running ulcer> b : not involving or encouraging a covering (as by bandages or overgrowth of tissue) or enclosure <open treatment of burns> c : relating to or being a compound fracture d : being an operation or surgical procedure in which an incision is made such that the tissues and organs are fully exposed—compare open-heart
2 : shedding the infective agent to the exterior <open tuberculosis>—compare closed 3
3 a : unobstructed by congestion or occlusion <open sinuses> b : not constipated <open bowels>
4 : using a minimum of physical restrictions and custodial restraints on the freedom of movement of the patients or inmates <an open psychiatric ward>