Latchkey - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A latchkey is a key used to open a door, especially the front door of a home. It often refers to a child who carries such a key because they return to an empty house after school.
Definition:
A key to an outside door, especially for a child returning home when parents are absent.
Synonyms:
house key, door key, passkey
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
lockout, barred door
Common Collocations:
latchkey child, latchkey kid, forgotten latchkey
Derivatives:
latchkeyed, latchkeying
Usage Tips:
Use "latchkey" to describe a key for children who return to an empty home after school.
Common Phrases:
latchkey kid, latchkey generation, forgotten latchkey
Etymology:
From "latch" (fastening device) + "key," first recorded in 19th century for children carrying keys to their homes.
Examples:
- 1. She always kept her latchkey in her backpack.
- 2. The boy lost his latchkey and had to wait outside.
- 3. Many parents worry about raising a latchkey child alone.
- 4. She felt independent carrying her own latchkey at age ten.