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wear one's heart on one's sleeve
to wear one's heart on one's sleeve
01
to make no effort to hide one's true feelings and intentions
What is the origin of the idiom "wear one's heart on one's sleeve" and when to use it?
The idiom "wear one's heart on one's sleeve" originated from medieval jousting tournaments, where knights would wear their lady's favor on their sleeves to publicly display their affection and devotion. The phrase is mostly used to emphasize transparency, vulnerability, and a lack of emotional restraint or inhibition in expressing oneself.
Example
Despite his tough exterior, he wears his heart on his sleeve when it comes to his family, expressing his love and concern openly.
He is not one to wear his heart on his sleeve, preferring to keep his emotions private.
The poet's verses reveal that he wears his heart on his sleeve, pouring his deepest emotions onto the page.
She wore her heart on her sleeve during the heartfelt speech, moving the audience with her sincerity and passion.
She wears her heart on her sleeve and is always quick to show her excitement and joy.
