Pronunciation: [ˈə͡ʊpən wˈa͡ɪd] (IPA) 
The phrase "open wide" is spelt using the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription as /ˈəʊpən waɪd/. This means that the first syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound, followed by an "uh" sound, and the second syllable is pronounced with a "w" and a long "i" sound. This phrase is commonly used by dentists when instructing their patients to open their mouths wide for an examination.
"Open wide" is an idiomatic expression that can be used as a verb phrase, typically involving the suggestion or instruction for someone to open their mouth widely. It is often used in a medical or dental context, particularly during an examination or procedure. The phrase emphasizes the need for a person to expand the opening of their mouth as much as possible to allow access for a thorough inspection or the administration of certain treatments.
In a broader sense, "open wide" can also be used metaphorically to imply the need for someone to be receptive, accepting, or willing to embrace something new, challenging, or novel. It suggests a mindset or attitude of openness, readiness, or a readiness to participate. This figurative usage often occurs in various situations, such as encouraging individuals to be open to new ideas, suggestions, experiences, or even emotional vulnerabilities.
Overall, "open wide" is primarily a directive phrase related to physically expanding the opening of one's mouth for medical or dental purposes. However, it can also be used figuratively to urge someone to be open-minded, receptive, or accepting in a more general sense.
The phrase "open wide" is a combination of two words: "open" and "wide".
The word "open" can be traced back to the Old English word "openian", which means "to open". It has cognates in other Germanic languages such as Old High German "offanon" and Old Norse "opna". Ultimately, these words are derived from the Proto-Germanic word "opnojan".
The word "wide" comes from the Old English word "wid", which initially meant "far" or "long". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "wīdaz".
When combined, the phrase "open wide" suggests the action of widening or expanding something that is initially closed or narrow. In the context of a directive to a person, it evolved to refer to opening the mouth wide, especially when visiting the dentist or doctor.
