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 $422-million ETF, rated five stars at Morningstar, has an expense ratio of 0.40% and converted in May from the open-ended Lazard International Equity Advantage mutual fund. Pia Singh, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2025 With ticket prices starting north of $100, the open-ended Wizard of Oz run is not just another release in a slate, though it could be followed by other new takes on library titles. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 27 Aug. 2025 The race is expected to be highly competitive and the most open-ended in decades. Craig Gilbert, jsonline.com, 26 Aug. 2025 Because blogs are so open-ended, many are written quickly and published without a clear sense of strategy. Rhea Wessel, Forbes.com, 26 Aug. 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 9 Sep. 2025.

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