Meaning & Definition of word "Closet"

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.