skeleton key

American  

noun

1. a key with nearly the whole substance of the bit filed away so that it may open various locks.

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skeleton key British  

noun

1. Also called: passkey.  a key with the serrated edge filed down so that it can open numerous locks

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Etymology

Origin of skeleton key

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

skeleton key

For Grilley, skeletal variation is a kind of skeleton key.

From Slate ● May 6, 2023

Those looking for a felt skeleton key to unlock his various idiosyncrasies aren’t likely to find one.

From New York Times ● Mar. 11, 2023

Their relationship, according to “The Last of Us” co-creator and executive producer Craig Mazin, is “ultimately … the skeleton key to unlock all of this show.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 1, 2023

Handmade in Blaine, Washington, they feature rich oil-tanned leather, nylon stitching, metal hardware and an antique skeleton key.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 13, 2021

Brigit riffled inside and retrieved old styluses, a moldy Marveller-bar, and a huge skeleton key imprinted with a diamond and wrapped in thread.

From "The Marvellers" by Dhonielle Clayton