The phrase "come clean" means to confess or reveal the truth about something. Its spelling is relatively straightforward, with the two words "come" and "clean" written separately. "Come" is pronounced /kʌm/, with the short "u" sound in the first syllable and a silent "e" at the end. "Clean" is pronounced /klin/, with the long "e" sound in the second syllable and a silent "e" at the end. Together, these two words form a common expression that encourages honesty and transparency.
The phrase "come clean" primarily means to confess or reveal the truth about something that has been hidden or kept secret. It refers to the act of being honest, transparent, and forthcoming about a situation or information that one has previously concealed or lied about.
In a literal sense, "come clean" implies to physically cleanse oneself or something, particularly when referring to washing or cleansing. However, when used figuratively, it carries the connotation of emotional or psychological cleansing by revealing the truth and letting go of dishonesty or deception.
To "come clean" often involves admitting to one's mistakes, wrongdoings, or misdeeds and facing the consequences of those actions. It emphasizes taking responsibility and showing remorse for one's behavior. This idiom emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, and open communication in personal relationships, professional settings, or even in broader contexts such as politics or public affairs.
The phrase can also be used more broadly to encourage someone to be truthful and transparent about their thoughts, feelings, or intentions. It reflects the notion of being authentic, sincere, and genuine in one's interactions with others. In essence, to "come clean" means to break free from the shackles of deception and embrace a path of honesty, trustworthiness, and accountability.
The phrase "come clean" originated in the mid-20th century, specifically in American English. Its etymology is derived from the idiomatic use of the word "clean". "Clean" in this context means to disclose or confess something that was previously hidden or kept secret. The word "come" implies the action of revealing or admitting the truth. Thus, when someone is asked to "come clean", it means they're being urged to confess or divulge the truth about something.