Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
worst-kept-secret
noun
/wɜrst kɛpt ˈsiːkrɪt/
Definition
A fact that is widely known despite attempts to keep it hidden.
Examples
- The rumor about the company’s merger was the worst-kept secret in the industry.
- Many people knew about her plans to move abroad; it was the worst-kept secret in our friend group.
- Despite the attempts at secrecy, the affair turned out to be the worst-kept secret in town.
Meaning
This phrase refers to a piece of information that, although it was meant to be confidential or hidden, has become widely known by many people.
Synonyms
- open secret
- widely known
- public knowledge
- poorly concealed fact
