directness

noun

di·​rect·​ness də-ˈrek(t)-nəs How to pronounce directness (audio)
dī-
Synonyms of directnessnext
1
: the character of being accurate in course or aim
2
: strict pertinence : straightforwardness
Her directness was disarming.Robin Cook

Examples of directness in a Sentence

his directness is much appreciated by his patients
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.
It was simply presented, with a split screen between the actor onstage and the casting director in the audience, and the directness of the actors’ messages came through both to the nominees and to viewers. Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 16 Mar. 2026 Mangiapane appreciates the coach’s directness. Kalen Lumpkins, Chicago Tribune, 14 Mar. 2026 That directness takes a distinct form in each artist’s practice. Miguel Sirgado, Miami Herald, 5 Mar. 2026 Dante’s bracing directness, his pathos and humor, and his invention feel effortless. The New Yorker, New Yorker, 4 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for directness

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of directness was in 1598

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Directness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/directness. Accessed 19 Mar. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on directness

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster