open-ended

adjective

open-end·​ed ˌō-pən-ˈen-dəd How to pronounce open-ended (audio)
: not rigorously fixed: such as
a
: adaptable to the developing needs of a situation
b
: permitting or designed to permit spontaneous and unguided responses
open-endedness noun

Examples of open-ended in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The story concludes on a hopeful yet open-ended note: HUNTR/X reconciles publicly, Rumi embraces her half-demon identity, and although the immediate danger is gone, mysteries like Jinu's fate remain, leaving clear room for a sequel. Samantha Stutsman, People.com, 12 July 2025 Size Handheld spiralizers can usually handle fruits and vegetables of any size due to an open-ended design, but crank-style models may have some size limitations. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 4 July 2025 Parker says, leaving his story also open-ended for a potential Season 2. Monica Mercuri, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025 Legions of fans were furious, blasting the ending as perplexing and open-ended. Greg Braxton, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for open-ended

Word History

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of open-ended was in 1825

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Cite this Entry

“Open-ended.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open-ended. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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