latchkey

English

noun
Definitions
  • A key, especially to an outside door.
  • A child who is given a key to the home and is expected to remain at home alone (without adult supervision until the parents return from work).

Etymology

Compound from English latch + English key (cay).

Origin

English

key

Gloss

cay

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms