come out of the woodwork
Meaning
To appear suddenly in large numbers, often unexpectedly (sometimes with a negative sense, like critics or opportunists).
Origin
From the literal idea of insects or vermin emerging from cracks, paneling, or wooden structures; by the mid-20th century it was used figuratively for people suddenly appearing, often in numbers.
Notes
Often implies unexpected appearance in numbers; frequently negative (opportunists/critics) but can be neutral depending on context.
Examples
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As soon as she won the award, old classmates came out of the woodwork to congratulate her.
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When the company announced layoffs, critics came out of the woodwork to say they saw it coming.
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After he posted the video, strangers came out of the woodwork with similar stories.
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The moment the restaurant got popular, investors came out of the woodwork offering deals.
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Whenever there’s free food, my neighbors seem to come out of the woodwork.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed as “come out of the woodwork”; tense can change (came/has come), and it’s often followed by “to + verb” or a reason clause (when/after...).
Synonyms
- emerge
- appear out of nowhere
- crawl out of the woodwork
Antonyms
- keep a low profile
- stay in the background
- lie low