linen (redirected from linens)

air one's dirty linen in public and wash one's dirty linen in public

Fig. to discuss private or embarrassing matters in public, especially when quarreling. (This linen refers to sheets and tablecloths or other soiled cloth.) They are arguing again. Why must they always air their dirty linen in public? She will talk to anyone about her problems. Why does she wash her dirty linen in public?

See also: air, dirty, public

Do not wash your dirty linen in public.

Prov. Do not talk about your private family problems in public. Grandson: How are we going to make Dad stop drinking? Grandmother: Hush! Don't wash your dirty linen in public.

See also: dirty, public, wash

---

wash your dirty laundry/linen in public  (British & Australian) also air your dirty laundry/linen in public (American & Australian)

to talk to other people about personal things that you should keep private I was brought up to believe that it was wrong to wash your dirty linen in public.

See play dirty, talk dirty

See also: dirty, laundry, public, wash