Pronunciation

/ˈoʊpən/

Definitions

• Adjective: Not closed or locked; able to be entered or accessed. For example: “The door was left wide open.”
• Verb: (transitive) To move something so that it is no longer closed or obstructed; to unfasten or unlock. For example: “She opened the window to let in some fresh air.”
• (intransitive) To become open. For example: “The flowers began to open in the morning sun.”
• (transitive) To establish or start something officially or formally. For example: “They opened the new store with a grand ceremony.”
• (transitive) To make something available for use or access. For example: “The museum opens daily at 10 AM.”
• (figurative) To disclose or reveal something, such as information or feelings. Example: “She opened up about her struggles.”

Phrases

• “Open sesame”: An idiomatic expression suggesting that a command or action will produce immediate or magical results.
• “Keep an open mind”: To remain receptive to new ideas or perspectives.
• “An open secret”: Information that is known by many people but not talked about openly.
• “Leave the door open”: To allow the possibility of something happening in the future.

Example Sentences

• Adjective: “The shop is open until late tonight.”
• Verb: “I opened the letter and read its contents.”
• Figurative usage: “The conference opened opportunities for international collaboration.”

Synonyms

• Unlocked
• Unfastened
• Ajar
• Revealed
• Accessible
• Begun (when referring to starting something)
• Initiated (when referring to starting something formally)
• Transparent (in the sense of revealing information)