Definitions

skeleton in the closet

NOUN

closely kept secret

Synonyms

WEAK

disgrace misconduct scandal secret shocker sin skeleton in the cupboard unmentionable thing wrongdoing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Ukraine must clearly emerge from this very weak historical period, not only as a sovereign and independent country, but without any skeletons in the closet or weights on its feet,” Chaly said.

From The Wall Street Journal

But at these prices, investors should watch out for any new skeletons in the closet.

From Barron's

Financial skeletons in the closet are not inherently disqualifying for a candidate for public office, said Jessica Levinson, a professor at Loyola Law School and the former head of the city of L.A.’s ethics commission.

From Los Angeles Times

As much as he tried to find that one skeleton in the closet to explain it all, he couldn’t.

From Los Angeles Times

“You shouldn’t have any skeletons in the closet.”

From New York Times