: in a direct and honest way : without hiding feelings or opinions
He openly acknowledged/admitted his mistake.
She spoke openly about her failed marriage.
Please feel free to express your opinions openly.
The governor has been openly critical of the President.
an openly gay politician [=a politician who does not hide the fact that he or she is gay]
Cite this Entry
“Openly.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/openly. Accessed 18 Apr. 2026.
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