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

Both actors have been outspoken in their critique of Israeli politics and in their support of Palestine. — William Earl, Variety, 24 Sep. 2026

Sarandon has been outspoken about her support for Palestinians. — Daysia Tolentino, Entertainment Weekly, 24 Sep. 2026

While Talarico and Hinojosa, the Democratic nominee for governor, have been outspoken in their desire to rein in data center development, both are taking a nuanced position. — Justin Papp, CNBC, 23 Sep. 2026

And although the medical research measure has some outspoken critics, there’s no money for an opposition campaign. — Los Angeles Times, 21 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