Clean breast - make a

Definitions

• Confess or admit something openly and honestly
  To reveal or disclose information or a secret that one has been keeping, usually in order to relieve guilt or remorse

• Be completely honest and transparent
  To speak or act without any deception or hidden motives, being open and sincere in one's intentions and actions

• Clear one's conscience
  To unburden oneself of guilt or wrongdoing by confessing and admitting the truth, often seeking forgiveness or absolution

• Reveal the whole truth
  To provide a full and honest account of a situation or event, leaving nothing out and not withholding any important details

Examples of Clean breast - make a

Conclusion

The idiom "clean breast" refers to the act of openly and honestly confessing or admitting something. It can also mean being completely honest and transparent, as well as clearing one's conscience or revealing the whole truth. These various meanings all revolve around the idea of being open and sincere in one's actions and intentions.

Origin of "Clean breast - make a"

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to medieval times, when the word "breast" was often used to refer to one's innermost thoughts and feelings. The phrase "make a clean breast of" was first recorded in the 16th century and was commonly used in the context of confession and absolution within the Christian church. It was believed that by confessing one's sins or wrongdoings, they could "cleanse" or make their "breast" pure and free from guilt.

Over time, the meaning of the idiom evolved and it became more commonly used in everyday language to refer to being open and honest about any matter, not just in a religious context. The phrase "make a clean breast of" also became shortened to simply "clean breast," as it is commonly used today.

Examples of the idiom can be found in literature and popular culture, such as in the classic novel "Tom Jones" by Henry Fielding and the TV show "Breaking Bad." It continues to be a relevant and widely understood idiom in modern English, emphasizing the importance of honesty and transparency in communication.