Sweep (something) under the rug, to
Definition: To conceal something. This allusion to hiding household dust or debris by sweeping it under a rug or carpet has been used figuratively since the mid-twentieth century. It appeared in the Boston Globe in 1979: “Attempts to sweep the Chappaquiddick scandal under the rug have not succeeded.”
Related Terms, Proverbs, and Idioms
- Cover one’s tracks: To hide one’s activities and make something difficult to detect.
- Bury the hatchet: To make peace and move past a conflict (primarily used for resolving disputes).
- Hide one’s light under a bushel: To hide one’s talents or achievements.
- Pull the wool over someone’s eyes: To deceive someone.
- Stonewall: To refuse to answer or cooperate, in an effort to delay or conceal the truth.
- Skeleton in the closet: A hidden and shocking secret.
Synonyms
- Conceal
- Hide
- Disguise
- Camouflage
Antonyms
- Reveal
- Uncover
- Expose
- Disclose
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “When we sweep things under the rug, we eventually trip over the bump.” - Anonymous Carpet Cleaner
- “Sweeping under the rug is a great practice unless you really like surprises.” - Sir Mess-a-Lot
Literature and Media
- “Catch Me If You Can” by Frank W. Abagnale Jr. - A thrilling look at disguise and deception.
- “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn - Secrets and hidden truths take center stage.
- “The Emperor’s New Clothes” by Hans Christian Andersen - A tale about deception and public vanity.
- Donnie Brasco - Film about undercover work and hidden identities.
- The Truman Show - Movie about a concealed reality.
Inspirational Thought
“To live openly and with integrity will save you from the backbreaking work of always having to remember what lies you’ve hidden under which rugs.”
### Which of these idioms means to conceal something?
- [x] Sweep (something) under the rug
- [ ] Swim with the dolphins
- [ ] Fly on the wings of eagles
- [ ] Sing under the moonlight
> **Explanation:** "Sweep (something) under the rug" is all about hiding or concealing something, unlike enjoying a swim, flying, or singing your favorite tune under moonlight.
### What does "pull the wool over someone's eyes" mean?
- [ ] Keeping things spotless
- [x] Deceiving someone
- [ ] Grooming sheep
- [ ] Making woolen clothes
> **Explanation:** "Pull the wool over someone's eyes" means to deceive someone, clever as it is imaginarily pulling wool to obstruct their vision!
### True or False: "Cover one's tracks" means to hide something.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** It's true! "Cover one's tracks" is all about hiding your activities to ensure they are not detected.
### Which term best matches the meaning of 'disguising the truth'?
- [x] Camouflage
- [ ] Celebrate
- [ ] Harmonize
- [ ] Deliver
> **Explanation:** Camouflage is all about disguising—perfect for blending in or hiding truths when you don't want to be seen.
### Which idiom might someone use to describe resolving old grievances?
- [ ] Sweep under the rug
- [ ] Pull the wool over someone's eyes
- [ ] Stonewalling
- [x] Bury the hatchet
> **Explanation:** "Bury the hatchet" means to resolve disputes and make peace, not to conceal them under a rug.
Remember, when life throws dirt your way, hiding it doesn’t make it disappear. Clean with honesty and integrity!
