open secret

noun

Synonyms of open secretnext
: a supposedly secret but generally known matter

Examples of open secret in a Sentence

It's an open secret that he's been cheating on his wife.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hegseth’s rivalry with Driscoll is an open secret at the Pentagon. Michael Scherer, The Atlantic, 27 Apr. 2026 This environment was an open secret. Paula Wethington, CBS News, 24 Apr. 2026 Machado’s experience in law enforcement as well as at the Madison Fire Protection District may have assuaged concerns about the legality and safety of the fireworks facility, which had become an open secret in the community. Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 10 Apr. 2026 The method appears to be an open secret online. Dan Bernstein, Sportico.com, 7 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for open secret

Word History

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of open secret was in 1828

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Cite this Entry

“Open secret.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open%20secret. Accessed 28 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

open secret

noun
: something supposed to be a secret but in fact generally known

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