come out of the closet: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘come out of the closet’ mean?
The idiom come out of the closet means to reveal one's true identity or beliefs that have been kept hidden or secret, typically pertaining to one's sexual orientation or gender identity.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "let on" means to reveal or disclose something, often a secret or information that was previously unknown. It implies that the information was not openly known or shared, and someone has now chosen to make it known to others.
The idiom "keep one's cards close to one's chest" means to keep one's thoughts, plans, or intentions secret or hidden in order to maintain an advantage or not reveal too much information.
The idiom "hide in plain sight" means to conceal oneself or something in a way that is not obvious or easily noticed, even though it is in a highly visible or noticeable place.
The idiom "go into one's shell" means to become quiet, reserved, or withdrawn, usually due to feeling shy, embarrassed, or defensive.
The idiom "get the dirty water off one's chest" means to confess or reveal something that has been bothering or troubling someone, in order to feel a sense of relief or release from the burden.
The idiom "get off one's chest" means to express or confess something that has been bothering or troubling someone, typically in order to provide relief or a sense of release.
The idiom *flush out* means to force someone or something out into the open, especially by using tactics or methods that expose their true nature or intentions.
The idiom "expose oneself" means to reveal or make known something that was previously hidden or secret, often in an embarrassing or vulnerable way.
The idiom "come up" means to arise or occur, often unexpectedly or suddenly. It can also refer to reaching a certain point in a discussion or meeting.
The idiom "come to light" means to be revealed or discovered, usually after being hidden or secret. It implies that information or facts are made known, often through investigation or examination.
Unveiling True Identity
The idiom "come out of the closet" is closely related to the expression "come out," which is used to describe an individual's revelation or public declaration of their non-heterosexual sexual orientation. The phrase "come out" can also be used more broadly to refer to acknowledging any hidden truth or aspect of one's life. Similarly, the idiom "come out of the broom closet" is used specifically within the pagan and witchcraft communities to describe someone openly revealing their involvement with these spiritual practices. Lastly, the idiom "come to light" is used to describe the revealing or discovery of previously hidden information or secrets.
As mentioned earlier, "come out of the closet" originally emerged in the mid-20th century within the LGBTQ+ community. This idiom played a crucial role in helping individuals disclose their sexual orientation and challenge societal norms. The significant impact of this phrase eventually led to its broader usage, representing the disclosure of any hidden truths.
The concept of coming out, regardless of the specific context, is often associated with bravery and the decision to be true to oneself. It requires individuals to confront their fears of judgment and potential rejection, ultimately embracing their identity and seeking acceptance from others. The act of coming out is deeply personal and unique to each individual, as it is both a journey of self-acceptance and an open invitation for others to understand and embrace their true selves.
The idiom "come out of the broom closet" stems from the pagan and witchcraft communities. It is used to describe the process of openly acknowledging and discussing one's involvement in these spiritual practices. People who identify as witches or practice pagan traditions have long faced societal misunderstandings and prejudices. Therefore, coming out of the broom closet serves as a powerful act of reclaiming one's identity and dispelling misconceptions about witchcraft and paganism. It is a call for acceptance and understanding, just as in the case of coming out of the closet in the LGBTQ+ community.
The idiom "come to light" is closely related to the concept of revelation or the unveiling of hidden information. This phrase implies that something was previously concealed or kept secret and has now been brought into the open. It can refer to a wide range of situations, such as the discovery of a hidden talent, the exposure of a scandal, or the revelation of an unknown truth. When something comes to light, it is often a moment of truth and clarity, allowing individuals to gain a deeper understanding of a particular situation or person.
One of the essential aspects of these idioms is the courage it takes to come out and reveal one's true self. Whether it is coming out of the closet, the broom closet, or allowing something to come to light, honesty and authenticity are crucial in establishing meaningful connections and fostering personal growth. By shedding light on hidden truths, individuals can find acceptance, understanding, and create spaces where they can truly be themselves.
It is evident that the journey of coming out is not exclusive to any particular community. Regardless of one's sexual orientation, spiritual practices, or personal experiences, the act of coming out represents an individual's pursuit of living an authentic life. These idioms, "come out," "come out of the broom closet," and "come to light" all share the common theme of revealing one's true self and highlighting the importance of embracing diversity and acceptance in society.
Beyond the personal implications, these idioms have broader societal repercussions. The act of coming out challenges societal norms, promotes inclusivity, and drives conversations surrounding identity, human rights, and equality. It encourages us to reflect on the impact of prejudices and preconceived notions, fostering empathy and understanding.
As the idiom "come out of the closet" and its related idioms continue to be used in everyday language, they serve as powerful instruments for promoting open dialogue, acceptance, and social progress. By embracing these idioms and the stories behind them, we can work towards a more inclusive and compassionate world where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, feels safe to express their true selves.
Example usage
Examples:
- He finally decided to come out of the closet and reveal his true sexual orientation.
- After years of hiding her artistic talent, she decided to come out of the closet and share her paintings with the world.
- It took a lot of courage for him to come out of the closet as a non-believer in his religious community.
The idiom "come out of the closet" is often used to refer to someone publicly revealing or disclosing an aspect of their identity that has been hidden or kept secret. It is most commonly associated with individuals coming out as LGBTQ+ and disclosing their sexual orientation or gender identity. However, the idiom can also be used in a broader sense to describe revealing any concealed aspect of oneself, such as talents, beliefs, or other personal attributes.
More "Sexuality" idioms
