Skeleton in the closet

The phrase "skeleton in the closet" refers to a dark secret, hidden wrongdoing, or embarrassing fact about someone's past or present life that they want to keep hidden or secret. It is often used metaphorically to describe a shameful or scandalous aspect of someone's personal history that they deem embarrassing or damaging if revealed to the public. This phrase suggests that the truth or revelation of this secret could cause significant harm or damage to a person's reputation or relationships.