door chain

noun

1. a short chain with a removable slide fitting that can be attached between the inside of a door and the doorjamb to prevent the door from being opened more than a few inches without the chain being removed.

Word History and Origins

Origin of door chain¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

There are also two sliding tracks, which JerryRigEverything notes works almost like a door chain lock to keep everything in place when sliding the phone open and closed.

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But when Gary, a little person, hurries to get out, he can’t reach the door chain and must ask Arthur for help.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The door chain only allowed a few inches between the postman and me.

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Finally the door chain rattles as someone locks it.

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I'd put on the door chain 'cause Dad says not even Black Swan Green's safe from perverts and maniacs.

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