outspoken

1 of 2

adjective

out·​spo·​ken ˌau̇t-ˈspō-kən 

1

: direct and open in speech or expression : frank

… outspoken in his criticism …

—Current Biography

2

: spoken or expressed without reserve

his outspoken advocacy of environmentalism

outspokenly adverb

outspokenness

ˌau̇t-ˈspō-kən-nəs 

noun

outspoken

2 of 2

past participle of outspeak

Synonyms of outspoken

Adjective

• honest
• candid
• frank
• vocal
• forthcoming
• forthright

Examples of outspoken in a Sentence

Adjective

She has been an outspoken advocate of women's rights throughout her life.

an outspoken and controversial radio host

She's very outspoken about political issues.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Irving, who plays for the Dallas Mavericks, has been outspoken in his support for Palestinian causes. — Jacob Gurvis, Sun Sentinel, 18 Sep. 2026

Berry was an outspoken proponent of both environmentally minded farming and its connection to his own Christian faith. — Sydney Giacalone, The Conversation, 17 Sep. 2026

The editing skews toward older candidates, working parents and outspoken candidates, none of it visible before any check starts. — Houman Akhavan, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2026

Kraft is an outspoken and generous supporter of pro-Israel causes. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 16 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1808, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for outspoken

• awoken
• betoken
• heartbroken
• unbroken
• unspoken
• broken
• oaken
• spoken
• token
• woken

Kids Definition

outspoken

adjective

out·​spo·​ken au̇t-ˈspō-kən 

: direct and open in speech or expression : frank

outspokenness

-kən-nəs 

noun