keyhole

English

noun
Definitions
  • The hole in a lock where the key is inserted and turns.
  • Any small opening resembling the hole for a key in shape or function.
  • A circle cut out of a garment as a decorative effect, typically at the front or back neckline of a dress.
  • (carpentry) A hole or excavation in beams intended to be joined together, to receive the key that fastens them.
  • (engineering) A mortise for a key or cotter.
  • (lasers) A transient column of vapor or plasma formed when using high energy beams, such as lasers, for welding or cutting.
  • (metallurgy) A welding method in which a hole forms in the surface immediately ahead of the puddle in the direction of welding. The hole is filled as the weld progresses.
  • (basketball) The free-throw lane together with the circle surrounding the free-throw line; key.
  • (astronomy) A gravitational keyhole.

Etymology

Compound from English key (cay) + English hole (miserable place, a hollow).

Origin

English

hole

Gloss

miserable place, a hollow

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms