Disclosure
dɪsˈkloʊʒər
Definitions
The act of revealing something, especially something that was previously secret or private.
dɪsˈkloʊʒər
The act of making new or secret information known.
The government's disclosure of classified documents sparked controversy.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're keeping a secret, like the surprise party you're planning. Disclosure is like letting the secret out! You tell everyone the details. It's about revealing something that was hidden.
👶 For kids: Telling a secret!
More Examples
The journalist's investigation led to the disclosure of widespread corruption.
Full disclosure is essential in any ethical agreement.
How It's Used
"The company filed a full financial disclosure."
"Transparency requires full disclosure of all relevant data."
"Informed consent requires full disclosure of potential risks."
Idioms & expressions
Full disclosure
The complete revelation of all relevant information, leaving nothing hidden.
"For legal reasons, the company was required to make a full disclosure of its financial dealings."
From Middle English *disclosen*, from Old French *desclos* (past participle of *desclore*, to disclose, reveal), from Latin *discludere* (to unclench, open up).
The term 'disclosure' has been used since the early 17th century, initially relating to revealing secrets or hidden information, and later evolving to encompass legal and financial contexts.
Memory tip
Think of 'closing' something up. 'Dis-' reverses that action, thus disclosure is the act of *un*-closing or revealing.