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

“We’ve had people coming out of the woodwork, saying, ‘Gosh, I hope you can save this gem of West Virginia,’ ” Blake Rowling said in an interview.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

The hot labor market means there will be even more focus on two inflation gauges coming out next week.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

For queer people, coming out carries precisely that weight.

From Salon • Jun. 5, 2026

The government is expected to announce the pay award within weeks, and the NEU will ballot if it isn't backed by funding rather than coming out of school budgets.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

I see the little point of his eyebrow rise, his smile coming out into the open.

From "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron