open up

verb

opened up; opening up; opens up

transitive verb

1
: to make available or possible
The discovery opens up the possibility of new cures.
2
: to make plain or visible : disclose
3
: to open by cutting into

intransitive verb

1
: to become available or possible
The hostess will let us know when a table opens up.
2
: to spread out or come into view
The road opens up ahead.
3
: to commence firing
4
: to become communicative
tried to get the patient to open up

Examples of open up 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.
Observations Columbus opened up the event shorthanded (missing Parris Todd for the day) but waxed the dead-last Hustlers nonetheless 4-0 to start their campaign. Todd Boss, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025 The Chiefs star opened up about his offseason with Kay Adams on Monday and talked about picking the brain of NFL legend Tom Brady. Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 7 July 2025 Cody Ware has opened up on his scary 93 mph crash into the tire barrier during the NASCAR Cup Series street race in Chicago, which occurred due to a brake failure. Saajan Jogia, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 July 2025 In June, Apple announced that those models would be opened up to third-party developers for the first time, allowing for a range of new iPhone and iPad apps. Mark Gurman, Fortune, 7 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for open up

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of open up was in 1582

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Cite this Entry

“Open up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open%20up. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

open up

verb
1
: to make available
2
: to make visible or come into view
the road opens up ahead
3
: to begin firing (as with a weapon or with questions)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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