Meaning of the word "skeleton in the cupboard" in English

What does "skeleton in the cupboard" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

skeleton in the cupboard

US /ˈskel.ɪ.tən ɪn ðə ˈkʌb.ərd/
UK /ˈskel.ɪ.tən ɪn ðə ˈkʌb.əd/

Idiom

an embarrassing or unpleasant secret that someone has, which they want to keep hidden

Example:
Every family has a skeleton in the cupboard.
His past scandal was a real skeleton in the cupboard for his political career.