Refine this word faster

Stronger alternatives Opposite tone Use in context Cross-language nuance

Make a clean breast

//ˈmeɪk ə ˈkliːn bɹɛst// verb

Definitions

Verb
  1. 1
    Often followed by of: to be honest about something; to confess. idiomatic

    "He preſſed him earneſtly to make a clean breaſt, and tell him all he knew of [Colin Roy Campbell of] Glenure's murder. To which Breck [i.e., Alan Breck Stewart] anſwered with an oath, that he had never ſeen Glenure dead or alive."

Etymology

From the notion that secrets are figuratively hidden in the heart which is contained in the breast (“chest”), and that admitting them will cause the heart to become clean and pure.

See also for "make a clean breast"

Synonyms Antonyms Rhymes Sentences Translate Word Type Pronunciation Word Forms

Next best steps

Find stronger synonymsSee usage examplesCheck pronunciation

Mini challenge

Want a quick game? Try Word Finder.