closeted

adjective

clos·​et·​ed ˈklä-zə-təd How to pronounce closeted (audio)
ˈklȯ-
: closet entry 3 sense 3
a closeted gay man

Examples of closeted in a Sentence

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.
Cena, who once filmed Trainwreck pretending to be a closeted bodybuilder desperate for zaftig comedian Amy Schumer’s affection, understands that the joke’s on him better than anyone. Oliver Bateman, The Washington Examiner, 30 May 2025 Based loosely on Skinner’s own college experience, Overcompensating centers around a closeted college freshman (aptly named Benny and played by Skinner) who has yet to come out of the closet. Denise Petski, Deadline, 21 May 2025 If Bill Rusher was a closeted gay man, he was tucked back there in the far corner, next to his grandfather’s golf clubs. Neal B. Freeman, National Review, 13 May 2025 Chen would be playing a Chinese immigrant who marries a closeted Taiwanese man living in New York City to obtain her green card. Lawrence Yee, People.com, 10 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for closeted

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of closeted was in 1969

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Cite this Entry

“Closeted.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/closeted. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

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