n.
Pronunciation: ' fra ŋ k
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, free, from Anglo-French franc, from Medieval Latin francus, from Late Latin Francus Frank
Date: 1535
1 : marked by free, forthright, and sincere expression <a frank reply>
2 a : unmistakably evident < frank materialism> b : clinically evident and unmistakable < frank pus>
– frank · ness noun
synonyms FRANK , CANDID , OPEN , PLAIN mean showing willingness to tell what one feels or thinks. FRANK stresses lack of shyness or secretiveness or of evasiveness from considerations of tact or expedience < frank discussions>. CANDID suggests expression marked by sincerity and honesty especially in offering unwelcome criticism or opinion <a candid appraisal>. OPEN implies frankness but suggests more indiscretion than FRANK and less earnestness than CANDID < open in saying what they think>. PLAIN suggests outspokenness and freedom from affectation or subtlety in expression < plain talk>.