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.
Even Morticia is unaware of what became of her sister, leaving Ophelia’s story open-ended for now. Jane Lacroix, People.com, 7 Aug. 2025 And some things are kind of open-ended and really meant to generate discussion among people who see it. Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 6 Aug. 2025 But after turning babyface for SummerSlam, WWE’s main event answered an open-ended question: Will Cena remain a good guy, double down as a villain or will there be a double-turn? Cody Rhodes lost the WWE Championship after failing to pull the trigger and hit Cena with the WWE Championship belt. Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2025 In the book, the story leaves off a bit more open-ended, though reasserting through Eleanor’s inner monologue that she and Jamie weren’t meant to be together. Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 1 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 19 Aug. 2025.

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