directness

noun

di·​rect·​ness də-ˈrek(t)-nəs How to pronounce directness (audio)
dī-
1
: the character of being accurate in course or aim
2
: strict pertinence : straightforwardness
her directness was disarmingRobin 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.
The real shock for Ukrainians is not necessarily in the substance of Trump's remarks but in their directness—which is indeed unwise. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 14 Feb. 2025 One group may appreciate directness, but another prefers more sensitivity. Linda Allen-Hardisty, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025 This is a film marked by ambiguity — which is its strength overall, even if there are crucial times in the film the narrative would be better served by directness. Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 26 Dec. 2024 Butler, for example, leaned into the directness of warning. Hanif Abdurraqib, The New Yorker, 2 Feb. 2025 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 4 Mar. 2025.

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!