Let the Cat Out of the Bag

Definition

Let the cat out of the bag is an idiom meaning to reveal a secret or disclose something that was intended to be kept confidential.

Parts of Speech

• Idiom
• Phrasal verb (transitive)

Pronunciation

• IPA: /lɛt ðə kæt aʊt əv ðə bæg/
• Respelling: LET thuh KAT out uhv thuh BAG

Etymology

Early 18th century: possibly from medieval markets where a cat hidden in a sack would be revealed when opened, exposing a fraud involving a pig in a poke. Later used figuratively for disclosing secrets.

Derivatives

• lets the cat out of the bag (3rd person)
• let the cat out of the bag (past tense)
• letting the cat out of the bag (gerund/participle)

Synonyms

• spill the beans
• give the game away
• blurt out
• divulge

Antonyms

• keep under wraps
• hold one’s tongue
• keep a secret

Usage

The idiom "let the cat out of the bag" is used in informal and formal contexts to describe accidentally or deliberately revealing confidential information. For example, "She let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party," or "Try not to let the cat out of the bag before the announcement."

Related Terms

• Secret: Information kept hidden or unknown.
• Disclosure: The act of making information known.
• Leak: Unauthorized release of private information.
• Reveal: To make known something previously hidden.
• Spoiler: Information that ruins a surprise or plot.

Detailed Definitions

Idiom / Phrasal Verb

• To reveal a secret – to disclose information that was meant to remain hidden.
  • Example: "He accidentally let the cat out of the bag about the merger during the meeting."
• To spoil a surprise or plan – to unintentionally ruin an element of suspense or confidentiality.
  • Example: "Don’t let the cat out of the bag about the new product launch."