Latchkey ( noun , verb )

(As a noun)

Latchkey ( noun )

1. A key used to open a latch or lock, especially one that is used to open the door of one's home.
2. A child who is left at home alone with a key to the house.

Origin:

From the verb "to latch" meaning to fasten or lock with a latch, and "key" meaning a device used to open or lock a latch.

Examples:

1. The latchkey was left under the mat for the child to find when he returned from school.
2. The latchkey was the only way for the child to enter the house when no one was home.
3. He was a latchkey child and had to take care of himself after school.
4. She was a latchkey child and had to cook dinner for herself.
5. The latchkey was lost and the child couldn't enter the house.

(As a verb)

Latchkey ( verb )

1. A key used to open a latch or lock, especially one that is used to open the door of one's home.
2. A child who is left at home alone with a key to the house.

Origin:

From the verb "to latch" meaning to fasten or lock with a latch, and "key" meaning a device used to open or lock a latch.

Examples:

1. The latchkey was left under the mat for the child to find when he returned from school.
2. The latchkey was the only way for the child to enter the house when no one was home.
3. He was a latchkey child and had to take care of himself after school.
4. She was a latchkey child and had to cook dinner for herself.
5. The latchkey was lost and the child couldn't enter the house.