← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: They tried to sweep the budget shortfall under the rug.

Sweep it under the rug

Meaning

Ignore a problem and pretend it is gone.

Usage

Used when describing denial or cover-ups.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Literal meaning of hiding dirt beneath a rug.

Popularized in domestic contexts in the mid-20th century.

Related Idioms

Sweep under the rug

Ignore or conceal problems instead of addressing them.

Water under the bridge

Past events that are forgiven or no longer important.

Under your belt

Gained experience or completed.

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.