Definition & Meaning of "[come|craw] out of the woodwork"

What is the origin of the idiom "come out of the woodwork" and when to use it?

The idiom "come out of the woodwork" originates from the idea of insects or pests, such as termites or cockroaches, emerging from hidden or concealed places like woodwork or cracks in the walls. This expression is used to describe situations where people or things appear or become noticeable, often suddenly and unexpectedly, after being hidden or unnoticed for a period. It can imply that these individuals or things are emerging in response to a particular event or opportunity.