frank
UK[fræŋk]US[fræŋk]
adj
honest and direct in what you say, sometimes in a way that other people might not like
v
to print a mark on a stamp or put a mark on an envelope to show that the cost of sending it has been paid
Etymology
the word "frank" originates from the latin francus, meaning "free," which referred to a member of the germanic tribe, the franks, who conquered gaul. in medieval latin, francus came to signify "free" in a legal sense, as the franks were the conquering class and thus enjoyed liberties not afforded to others. this notion of freedom evolved into the meaning "free in speech" or "candid," as one who is free feels no constraint to hide their true thoughts. the verb sense, related to marking mail for free passage, directly extends from this core idea of freedom from charge or restriction.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword from old french franc, meaning "free". it entered english as a proper noun (the franks) and later developed its adjectival meanings.
Examples
to be perfectly frank, i think your plan is unrealistic.
she was frank about her disappointment with the service.
the letter was franked with the official parliamentary seal.