ENGLISH
REFERENCE

come out of the closet

idiom
Meaning

To disclose to others about one's sexual orientation, romantic orientation, or gender identity, where previously this had been kept secret.


Examples
SIMPLE

He finally came out of the closet to his parents.

CONTEXTUAL

After years of hiding his identity, he decided to come out of the closet to his closest friends first.

COMPLEX

The memoir traces how she summoned the courage to come out of the closet in an era when such honesty could cost her everything.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    as they come

    As it is possible to be.

  2. 02

    blow to kingdom come

    To totally destroy (something); to annihilate or wipe out (something).

  3. 03

    Christmas come early

    Something very delightful or fortunate that is happening or has happened, especially earlier than expected.

  4. 04

    closet case

    A person who conceals or denies their sexuality or gender identity.

  5. 05

    come a cropper

    To suffer some accident or misfortune; to fail.

  6. 06

    come a long way

    To make significant progress.

  7. 07

    come again

    A polite formula used when one has not heard or understood what has been said, or to indicate surprise.

  8. 08

    come alive

    to become responsive and animated.

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