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Region: General | Usage example: The candidate had no skeletons in the closet according to the vetting team.

Skeletons in the closet

Meaning

Hidden secrets that could cause embarrassment if revealed.

Usage

Used when referencing potential scandals.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Victorian fear of revealing mummified relatives kept in closets.

Used since the 19th century to describe hidden misdeeds.

Related Idioms

Skeleton in the closet

An embarrassing secret kept hidden.

Ace in the hole

A hidden advantage kept in reserve until it's needed.

Read between the lines

Identify hidden meaning.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.