Meaning & Definition of word "Closet"
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Closet
/ˈklɒzɪt/
noun:
- 1. A small room or space used for storing clothes and other personal items.
- Example: She hung her coat in the closet before entering the living room.
- 2. A piece of furniture or a space in a room with doors that has shelves or hanging space for clothes.
- Example: The bedroom has a large closet with sliding doors.
- 3. A closet in a home used for storing linens, cleaning supplies, or other household items.
- Example: He went to the linen closet to grab some towels.
- 4. A secretive or concealed place.
- Example: He kept his true feelings hidden in the closet for years.
verb:
- 1. To confine or hide someone or something away, often used figuratively.
- Example: They decided to closet their disagreements and focus on the project.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'clos' meaning ‘enclosed’.
Common Phrases and Expressions
coming out of the closet:
To reveal one's sexual orientation or hidden identity.
putting something in the closet:
To keep something hidden or secret.
closet case:
A person whose sexual orientation is not publicly known.
Related Words
wardrobe:
A tall cabinet used for storing clothes.
cupboard:
A fixed piece of furniture with shelves and doors, used for storing dishes or food.
Slang Meanings of closet
Meaning: To be in the closet
Example Sentence: He was in the closet about his sexuality for many years.
Meaning: Closet gay
Example Sentence: She suspected he was a closet gay, but he never admitted it.