open-ended
adjective
open-end·ed
ˌō-pən-ˈen-dəd 
: 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
The suspension is open-ended and described as temporary.
—
Dan Cody, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Apr. 2025
But this isn’t just a case of open-ended wanderlust.
—Katia Damborsky, Robb Report, 20 Apr. 2025
In this yard, the open-ended retaining wall distinguishes the shrubs, while spilling into the gravel of the patio for an easy transition.
—Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 18 Apr. 2025
Western leaders need to face and address the concerns of their own citizens, many of whom do not want a costly open-ended confrontation with Russia.
—Alexander Gabuev, Foreign Affairs, 17 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for open-ended
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.
Dan Cody, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Apr. 2025
But this isn’t just a case of open-ended wanderlust.
—Katia Damborsky, Robb Report, 20 Apr. 2025
In this yard, the open-ended retaining wall distinguishes the shrubs, while spilling into the gravel of the patio for an easy transition.
—Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 18 Apr. 2025
Western leaders need to face and address the concerns of their own citizens, many of whom do not want a costly open-ended confrontation with Russia.
—Alexander Gabuev, Foreign Affairs, 17 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for open-ended
Cite this Entry
“Open-ended.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open-ended. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share