open up

verb

opened up; opening up; opens up

transitive verb

1
: to make available or possible
The discovery opens up the possibility of new cures.
2
: to make plain or visible : disclose
3
: to open by cutting into

intransitive verb

1
: to become available or possible
The hostess will let us know when a table opens up.
2
: to spread out or come into view
The road opens up ahead.
3
: to commence firing
4
: to become communicative
tried to get the patient to open up

Examples of open up 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 couple opened up about the ups and downs of their relationship in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE ahead of the release of Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up season 2. Bailey Richards, People.com, 9 Mar. 2025 The pandemic opened up new work models, allowing employees more flexibility and control over their ability to stay productive while managing their personal responsibilities. Nirit Cohen, Forbes, 9 Mar. 2025 Another bruising week on Wall Street gave us a chance to open up our wallet and pick up a number of stocks on sale. Kevin Stankiewicz, CNBC, 9 Mar. 2025 However, the main card opened up with a lightweight bout between Mauricio Ruffy and King Green. William Lambers, Newsweek, 9 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for open up

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of open up was in 1582

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Open up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open%20up. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

open up

verb
1
: to make available
2
: to make visible or come into view
the road opens up ahead
3
: to begin firing (as with a weapon or with questions)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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