open letter

American  

noun

1. a letter, often of protest or criticism, addressed to a specific person, but intended to be brought to public attention.

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open letter British  

noun

1. a letter, esp one of protest, addressed to a person but also made public, as through the press

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Other Word Forms

• open-letter adjective

Etymology

Origin of open letter

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

Abrams and Kristen Stewart have signed an open letter asking California Atty.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

An open letter signed by hundreds of Hollywood heavyweights was published earlier this month opposing the deal.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

Wilson had previously warned in an open letter to potential Lululemon CEO candidates that a new leader alone won’t resolve the company’s problems.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

The booking caused an immediate backlash, after which West updated his open letter to the Wall Street Journal.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

“A letter from your mother,” he said waving the open letter.

From "Bless Me, Ultima" by Rudolfo Anaya