Definition of "come out of the closet" in English

Verb

1. To disclose to others about one's sexual orientation, romantic orientation, or gender identity, where previously this had been kept secret.

   • He came out of the closet as gay to his friends.

2. To self-disclose about one's minority or disapproved-of identity, belief, preference, etc.

   • She finally came out of the closet to her religious family regarding her atheism.