frilægning

Frilægning is a Danish term for the act of exposing, uncovering, or revealing something that has been hidden, covered, or withheld. The word combines fri (free) and lægge (to lay), and it is used across a range of disciplines to describe the removal of an outer layer or barrier to make contents accessible or visible. In physical contexts, frilægning refers to operations that uncover materials, structures or spaces. In archaeology and cultural heritage management, it denotes the careful removal of soil and overburden to expose artifacts or architectural features while preserving their context. In construction, it can mean exposing foundations, pipes, or other subsurface elements by removing coverings or backfill. Frilægning may also describe the clearing of vegetation or soil to reveal bedrock or mineral seams in geotechnical work.

In information and governance contexts, frilægning is used to mean disclosure or revelation of information. It can describe the publication of documents, the release of data, or the exposure of previously concealed facts, often in journalistic or administrative settings. The term can carry neutral or descriptive connotations but may be associated with controversy when sensitive information is released.

Practical handling of frilægning typically requires planning, documentation, and adherence to safety, conservation, and legal requirements. In physical work, methods aim to minimize damage to artifacts, structures, or environments, while in information contexts, considerations include privacy, confidentiality, and access rights.