outspoken

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

Synonyms of outspoken

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

Examples of outspoken in a Sentence

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

Much has been made of JD’s political evolution from Hillbilly Elegy–era media darling and outspoken Never Trumper to one of the president’s most reliable defenders. — Kate Andersen Brower, Vanity Fair, 12 Aug. 2026

In a Republican primary, where candidates typically run to the right, voters may opt for the candidate that has the most outspoken track record. — Jack Harvel august 12, Kansas City Star, 12 Aug. 2026

Insiders note that O’Leary, who became president and CEO of Cinema United in 2023, was appointed in part because he was viewed as less fiery than his predecessor, John Fithian, an outspoken advocate for theater owners. — Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 11 Aug. 2026

Ward Churchill, the former University of Colorado professor whose writings and outspoken political views ignited a national debate over academic freedom and free speech, has died. — Jeff Gurney, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

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