open-ended

adjective

open-end·​ed ˌō-pən-ˈen-dəd How to pronounce open-ended (audio)
Synonyms of open-endednext
: 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
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This time around, however, the president could choose a much more difficult operation that could require a sustained and possibly open-ended battle, which is something Trump has refused to do thus far in his tenure. Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 18 Feb. 2026 Each subject and approach is an ongoing concern left intentionally open-ended, and never contained within a single project, title or grouping. Steve Appleford, Los Angeles Times, 17 Feb. 2026 The strike is open-ended until the health care giant and union alliance reach a contract agreement. Pat Maio, Oc Register, 16 Feb. 2026 What once felt open-ended now feels finite. Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 11 Feb. 2026 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 22 Feb. 2026.

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