coming out

American  

[kuhm-ing-out] / ˈkʌm ɪŋˈaʊt /

Or coming-out

noun

1. a debut into society, especially a formal debut by a debutante.

2. one's acknowledgment and public disclosure of a sexual orientation or gender identity that does not conform to socially defined norms.

   How did your parents respond to your coming out?

3. an acknowledgment of a surprising interest or hobby, or an unexpected identification as part of a fandom, a supporter of a particular political party, etc.

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Etymology

Origin of coming out

First recorded in 1805–15; noun use of verb phrase come out; see -ing ¹

Example Sentences

"If Spirit's creditors or other potential investors don't think they can run it profitably coming out of its second bankruptcy in under two years, I doubt the US government can either," Cotton said.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

SINGAPORE—The Trump administration announced criminal charges, sanctions and multimillion-dollar rewards aimed at combating online scams coming out of Southeast Asia and targeting Americans.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

In a note to clients late on Wednesday, Truist’s Will Stein listed Musk’s “HW3 capitulation” as one of the negatives coming out of the Tesla call.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 23, 2026

Meanwhile, the Lakers showed some seriously good stuff early, coming out firing in the first quarter, scoring on their first three shots, eight of their first nine, and eventually 16 of their first 20.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

It was still raining softly that afternoon as I pedaled home from Arnold’s, but the sun was coming out and I knew we’d be able to work the next day.

From "Lawn Boy" by Gary Paulsen