come out of the closet
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Definition & Meaning of "come out of the closet"

to come out of the closet
01

to no longer keep one's sexual preference or gender identity a secret

to [come] out of the closet definition and meaning
IdiomIdiom
InformalInformal

What is the origin of the idiom "make a go of something" and when to use it?

The idiom "come out of the closet" originated within the LGBTQ+ community in the mid-20th century as a metaphorical expression. The "closet" symbolizes the secrecy and concealment of one's non-heterosexual or non-cisgender identity due to societal pressures, stigma, and discrimination. The phrase gained prominence during the gay rights movement and was popularized in the 1960s and 1970s as individuals began to advocate for greater visibility and acceptance. Since then, it has become a widely recognized and used term to describe the process of disclosing one's LGBTQ+ identity and embracing authenticity.

example
Example
click on words
He comes out of the closet and openly embraces his identity as a gay man.
She is currently considering whether to come out of the closet to her family and friends.
He came out of the closet last year and has since become an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
02

to publicly talk about something such as a belief that one used to keep secret

IdiomIdiom
InformalInformal

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

The idiom "come out of the closet" in the context of publicly talking about a belief or information that was previously kept secret is an extension of its original usage within the LGBTQ+ community. Although the phrase's origin in this specific context is not as clear-cut, it likely emerged as a metaphorical extension of the original meaning. Over time, the phrase has been adopted more broadly to describe the act of openly discussing any previously hidden belief, information, or personal aspect of one's life.

example
Example
click on words
She comes out of the closet and shares her true beliefs with her friends.
He is coming out of the closet today to openly express his political views.
They come out of the closet and reveal their long-held secret to the world.
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