outspoken

[ out-spoh-kuhn ]

adjective

1. uttered or expressed with frankness or without reserve:

   outspoken criticism.

2. free or unreserved in speech.

   Antonyms: taciturn

verb

1. past participle of outspeak.

outspoken

/ ˌaʊtˈspəʊkən /

adjective

1. candid or bold in speech
2. said or expressed with candour or boldness

Derived Forms

• ˌoutˈspokenness, noun

Other Words From

• outspoken·ly adverb
• outspoken·ness noun
• unout·spoken adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of outspoken¹

First recorded in 1800–10; out- + spoken

Synonym Study

See frank ¹.

Example Sentences

Shelby’s outspoken opposition helped sink Moore’s candidacy, and Moore lost to Democrat Doug Jones.

From Washington Post

Joining the outspoken number of investors frustrated by San Francisco’s government, Founders Fund General Partner Keith Rabois recently announced his move to the city in November and acquired a home in the area.

From Fortune

Shultz was an early and outspoken advocate of aggressive anti-terrorism measures.

From Washington Post

He has been outspoken on the need for diversity and sustainability in his industry.

From Time

Last April, Amazon fired two of its headquarters workers who had been outspoken critics of Amazon’s warehouse working conditions during the coronavirus pandemic and the company’s climate policies.

From Washington Post

But few of us would recognize the name of Dietrich von Hildebrand, a German philosopher-turned-outspoken Nazi antagonist.

From The Daily Beast

He was one of few outspoken activists in Syria prior to the uprising that took a place in March of 2011.

From The Daily Beast

And Jeb, of course, will also have to deal with his outspoken support for Common Core, which the Republican base loathes.

From The Daily Beast

Republican Joni Ernst, an outspoken right-winger, is the new Senator-elect from Iowa.

From The Daily Beast

But there are likely clues to be found in Germán Goyeneche's outspoken passion for the buying and selling of art.

From The Daily Beast

It was a pretty compliment, and sincere I knew, for no one could meet him without recognising his frank outspoken nature.

From Project Gutenberg

At first she had rather resented Sir John's outspoken objection to her niece as his son's wife.

From Project Gutenberg

Jane was homely and very outspoken; she made enemies easily yet was a loyal friend.

From Project Gutenberg

It nettled Dean—frank, outspoken, straightforward as he had always been.

From Project Gutenberg

"Why, Frank," cried Constance, in a burst of outspoken admiration.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• blunt
• candid
• forthright
• strident
• vocal