(out) in/into the open

idiom

Definition of (out) in/into the open

1 : in or to an area or place that is not covered or enclosed We slept out in the open with nothing above us but the stars. A deer walked out into the open. food left out in the open

2 : in or into a situation in which something (such as a feeling) is no longer hidden or kept secret Her true feelings were finally out in the open. He rarely fought his political battles in the open. Let's get everything out into the open. You've been lying to me, haven't you?