open-ended

adjective

open-end·​ed ˌō-pən-ˈen-dəd 

: 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

That's an open-ended question that is being fielded and answered by many around the country. —Jane Onyanga-Omara, USA Today, 3 May 2025

Founders today lean into names that feel open-ended — ones that spark curiosity or emotion instead of simply describing a function. —Darpan Munjal, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025

While the offensive tackle position feels open-ended for the Panthers, Carolina shouldn’t try to nab an offensive tackle early unless the guy is the top prospect on their board. —Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 24 Apr. 2025

The Last of Us presents an open-ended question at the moment, since a lot of its Emmy appeal will likely depend on how well its second-season goes over with the viewing public. —Joe Reid, Vulture, 19 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for open-ended

• apprehended
• comprehended
• condescended
• recommended
• resuspended
• unamended
• unattended
• undefended
• undescended
• unexpended
• unintended
• amended