overtly

adverb

overt·​ly ō-ˈvərt-lē 

ˈō-(ˌ)vərt-

: in an overt manner : in a way that is open, straightforward, or obvious

an overtly hostile remark

an overtly political message

… the fashion of dumbing down the public discourse was over. Being overtly brainy, simply being oneself, was back in style.

—Elizabeth Drew

In the late 1860's interest gradually waned in landscape paintings that overtly conveyed nationalistic, philosophical, and religious meanings.

—Franklin Kelly

It is now easier for French writers to write more overtly about the occupation because their country is now stressing reconciliation, forgiveness for whatever wrongs were done then …

—Barbara Probst Solomon

Examples of overtly in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Brexit is the one overtly contemporary reference in the new play, and Lynn has not moderated his view of it. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 31 Mar. 2026

As romantic silhouettes continue to gain momentum season after season, spring/summer 2026 proves that pink is no longer reserved for overtly feminine dressing. —Minty Mellon, Vogue, 26 Mar. 2026

Their voting and purchasing decisions are being driven by these strategic and, at times, overtly racist tactics. —Stuart Miller, Los Angeles Times, 24 Mar. 2026

But this is as overtly political as Land Whales get. —Philip Sherburne, Pitchfork, 18 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for overtly

• covertly
• curtly