open
Not closed or blocked; honest and receptive to ideas.
Word facts
Definition
Open describes something not closed or blocked, available to access or use. As a verb, to open means to make or become accessible. As an adjective, open also means honest, willing to listen, and receptive to new ideas.
Usage: Open has both physical senses (an open window) and metaphorical senses (an open mind, an open question). Open can also mean not decided: 'The question is still open'.
Example sentences
Please keep the door open — it helps with ventilation.
She has an open mind and listens before judging.
The shop opens at eight in the morning.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word family
From Old English open ('open, manifest'), from Proto-Germanic *upanaz. Related to 'up' — an open door faces upward, unobstructed.
Open is the opposite of closed — physically and mentally. An open mind is one that hasn't closed off any possibilities.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What does open-minded mean?
Open-minded means willing to consider new ideas and opinions without prejudice.
What is the noun form of open?
Openness is the noun for the quality. An opening refers to a gap or an opportunity.