English Reference
Idiom idiom

hidden in plain sight


Seemingly hidden, but actually not hidden and easy to find.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

The keys were hidden in plain sight on the table.

CONTEXTUAL

I searched everywhere for my glasses, only to find them hidden in plain sight on top of my head.

COMPLEX

The detective realized the vital clue had been hidden in plain sight, disguised as a common document among the victim's personal papers.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    bring one's own hide to market

    To create one's own fate, as a result of one's chosen character and actions; to experience the appropriate consequences of one's behavior.

  2. 02

    can't stand the sight of

    To hate vehemently; to really despise.

  3. 03

    catch sight of

    to see for a brief period; to get a glimpse of

  4. 04

    get out of my sight

    Stop bothering or harassing me; go away.

  5. 05

    have someone's hide

    To punish or subdue someone.

  6. 06

    hide in plain sight

    To be unnoticeable, by staying visible in a setting that masks presence.

  7. 07

    hide nor hair

    A trace, indication, or evidence, especially of a person.

  8. 08

    hide one's light under a bushel

    To conceal one's positive qualities or talents, especially due to modesty or shyness; to avoid attention.

Last updated August 10, 2026