come out in the wash: Idiom Meaning and Origin

come out in the wash is an idiom used in American English that refers to the idea that the truth or the outcome of a situation will eventually become clear or resolved. The origin of this idiomatic expression is not entirely certain, but there are a few theories and explanations that have been proposed.

One possible origin of the idiom comes from the practice of laundering clothes. When clothes are washed, any stains or dirt on them are expected to be removed, and the fabric is expected to come out clean. This process symbolizes the idea that any hidden or obscured information or truth will eventually be revealed or clarified.

Another theory suggests that the idiom may have originated from the notion of dyeing cloth. When dye is applied to fabric, it is often difficult to predict the exact color outcome until the dyeing process is complete. In the same way, in certain situations, it may be hard to determine the final outcome or resolution until more information or time has passed.

Additionally, the idiom may have derived from the concept of writing with disappearing ink. In the past, certain inks were designed to fade or disappear over time, leaving no evidence of what was written. This concept relates to the idea that the truth or the final result of a situation will eventually become known, even if it initially seems unclear or concealed.

Overall, the exact origin and etymology of the idiom come out in the wash remain somewhat uncertain. However, it is commonly used to express the belief that any hidden or unknown information or conclusion will eventually become evident. Whether related to laundering clothes, dyeing fabric, or disappearing ink, the idiom conveys the underlying message that the truth will inevitably be revealed or resolved, bringing clarity to a situation.

The idiom "come out" is another expression that can be related to "come out in the wash." "Come out" refers to something becoming apparent or known. In the context of the idiom come out in the wash, it suggests that the truth or outcome of a situation will eventually become known or clear, much like how something "comes out" to be seen or understood.

The idiom "wash out" can also be connected to the concept of come out in the wash. "Wash out" refers to something being eliminated or removed, often through the process of washing. In the context of the idiom come out in the wash, it implies that any hidden or obscured information will be washed out or eliminated, leaving behind a clear and revealed truth or outcome.

Another related idiom is "come out of one's shell." This phrase means to become more outgoing or sociable after being shy or reserved. While it may not appear directly connected to come out in the wash, the underlying idea of breaking free from a shell or barrier aligns with the concept of hidden or obscured information eventually being revealed or clarified.

The idiom "get wet" can also be related to the idea of come out in the wash. In some contexts, "get wet" means to experience something or become involved in a situation, often resulting in some form of revelation or understanding. This aligns with the belief that the truth or the final outcome of a situation will eventually become clear or known, just as one "gets wet" by being immersed in the situation.

The final related idiom is "go horribly right." This phrase is a play on the phrase "go horribly wrong," which means to turn out very badly. However, "go horribly right" refers to a situation that unexpectedly and surprisingly turns out extremely well. While it may not have an obvious connection to come out in the wash, the idea of an outcome that initially seems uncertain or concealed but ends up being exceptionally positive resonates with the overarching concept of the truth or the final result becoming clear or resolved.

The idiom come out in the wash embodies the idea that the truth or the final outcome of a situation will eventually become clear. Its origins, although not definitively known, suggest connections with laundering clothes, dyeing fabric, and disappearing ink, all of which emphasize the eventual revelation or clarification of hidden information or obscured truth. When faced with uncertainties or ambiguities, this idiom reassures individuals that over time, the truth will emerge, dispelling any doubts or misunderstandings. While the exact source of the idiom remains elusive, its metaphorical meaning resonates with the human desire for understanding and resolution. Through its imagery of cleanliness, color transformation, and vanishing ink, this idiom encapsulates the hope that even amid uncertainty, the ultimate truth will come to light. As with the laundering process, where stains are removed and fabric emerges clean, so too will the clarity and certainty of a situation be revealed in due course. Thus, the idiom come out in the wash offers solace in the face of ambiguity and encourages patience in the pursuit of truth.