latchstring

American  

[lach-string] / ˈlætʃˌstrɪŋ /

noun

1. a string passed through a hole in a door, for raising the latch from the outside.

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latchstring British  

/ ˈlætʃˌstrɪŋ /

noun

1. a length of string fastened to a latch and passed through a hole in the door so that it can be opened from the other side

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Etymology

Origin of latchstring

First recorded in 1785–95; latch + string

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

latchstring

Orville; 3. latchstring; Since the creation of the Jewish state in 1948, the Israelis have tried to cultivate relations with non-Arab nations in the Middle East, such as Turkey and Iran.

From Time Magazine Archive

The latchstring is on the outside, and we are all tickled to death that you pulled it.

From Time Magazine Archive

Sally called, as she lifted her hand to pull the latchstring of her door.

From The Leatherwood God by William Dean Howells

It goes often to the home where the latchstring hangs on the outside.

From Laugh and Live by Douglas Fairbanks

He pulled the latchstring, and led her in.

From North of Fifty-Three by Anton Otto Fischer