Come/crawl out of the woodwork

usgb
phrase

People not seen or heard from in awhile appear because there is an attractive situation.

As soon as it was known that she had won the lottery, her relatives came out of the woodwork.
Visual representation of "come/crawl out of the woodwork" - People not seen or heard from in awhile appear because there is an attractive situation.

Often appears as...

  • relatives come out of the woodwork
  • people come out of the woodwork

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "come/crawl out of the woodwork"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Surprise Appearance

The phrase often implies surprise at seeing someone after a long time, especially if unexpected.

Illustration for Surprise Appearance
After his article went viral, old classmates came out of the woodwork to contact him.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Hidden Motives

People may seem to come out of nowhere, often because they want something from the situation.

Illustration for Hidden Motives
Volunteers came out of the woodwork once the charity offered concert tickets as a reward.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Opportunistic Context

The phrase is used when people are drawn by an opportunity, not just casually appearing.

Illustration for Opportunistic Context
When the startup began getting press, investors came out of the woodwork.
Visual representation of the word "Come/crawl out of the woodwork"

Never forget "Come/crawl out of the woodwork"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top