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

Other Word Forms

• outspokenness noun
• outspokenly adverb
• unoutspoken adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of outspoken¹

First recorded in 1800–10; out- + spoken

Synonym Study

See frank ¹.

Example Sentences

It's a story that certainly is in keeping with Queen Camilla's outspoken campaigning against domestic abuse and violence against women.

From BBC

As an outspoken supporter of the Palestinian people, one of Yousaf's primary concerns is what he called a "chilling effect on lawful expression".

From BBC

Since late 2024 he has been an outspoken critic of management and governments for not doing enough to protect jobs at the Grangemouth refinery.

From BBC

UK leaders have become more outspoken against Israel's conduct in Gaza, including a recent plan to expand the war and take over Gaza City.

From BBC

He refused to wear face masks in shops, rejected vaccinations and became increasingly outspoken about his distrust of the government restrictions and lockdowns - of which Victoria had particularly long and strict ones.

From BBC

Related Words

• blunt 
• candid 
• forthright 
• strident 
• vocal