Dictionary definition of “open the kimono”

open the kimono

v. phr. to expose or reveal secrets or proprietary information. Subjects: English, Slang

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Citations: [1959 U.A. Casal Folklore Studies “The Goblin Fox and Badger and Other Witch Animals of Japan” vol. 18, p. 84: It was believed that the wolf was shameful of sexual things, having no strong sexual instincts. He would never disclose his organ, but hide it behind his hanging tail. Should a person perchance see his sexual act, he or she would have to open the kimono and disclose his or her own organ, so as not to shame the wolf.] 1979 Jennifer Clough Evening Capital (Annapolis, Md.) (May 9) “Pledged projects get axed” p. 8: We started four years ago with opening the kimono (budget book) and now we’re caught without our underwear. 1984 Paul Freiberger Fire in the Valley p. 308 @ (Dec. 9, 1999): “I went down to Xerox Development Corporation,” [Steve] Jobs said,…“and I said, ‘Look, I will let you invest a million dollars in Apple if you will sort of open the kimono at Xerox PARC.’” 2005 Scott Adams @ comic Dilbert (June 16): Don’t open the kimono until you ping the change agent for a brain dump and drill down to your core competencies. 2006 Craig Silverman Regret the Error (Mar. 29) “Those elusive broadcast corrections”: In this situation it’s essential for ABC to inform readers as to the disciplinary action taken. Was the offending reporter fired? Suspended? Given a stern talking to? Was a note put in their file? Maybe. ABC could also take the opportunity to inform readers about its “standards.” We looked but couldn’t find them anywhere on the site. The end result is some sort of unknown disciplinary action based on uncommunicated standards. Open the kimono a bit, please.

Posted 5 Apr 06 | Permalink | Tell a Friend