Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

come-out-of-the-woodwork

Idiom

/kʌm aʊt əv ðə ˈwʊdˌwɜrk/

Definition

To appear unexpectedly or to emerge from hiding, especially in large numbers.

Examples

After the announcement, supporters came out of the woodwork to voice their approval.
When the old scandal resurfaced, critics came out of the woodwork to comment on it.
As soon as the lottery numbers were revealed, winners came out of the woodwork to claim their prizes.

Meaning

This phrase is commonly used when people or things that have been hidden or not visible suddenly show up, often referred to when discussing unexpected reactions or the emergence of issues.