lay bare
/leɪ ˈbeər/ · lay bare
verb
- to expose or reveal something previously hidden or concealed The investigation laid bare the company's corrupt practices.
- to make something clear or obvious The evidence laid bare the truth behind the conspiracy.
verb
- to strip or remove something, such as clothing or a covering The storm laid bare the trees, exposing their branches to the wind.
Did you know? The phrase 'lay bare' has been used in literature, such as in Charles Dickens' novel 'Oliver Twist', where it is used to describe the exposure of a character's true nature.