latchstring

American  

[lach-string] / ˈlætʃˌstrɪŋ /

noun

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

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of latchstring

First recorded in 1785–95; latch + string

Example Sentences

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

From Time Magazine Archive

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 always out, and tired prospectors and trail-weary men turn aside from the flowing river or frozen trail to rest there for a space and be warm by her fire. 

From The Faith of Men by London, Jack

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

From The Leatherwood God by Howells, William Dean

Hang out the latchstring and remove everything breakable, for the wanderer is coming home!

From The Camp Fire Girls on the Open Road or, Glorify Work by Frey, Hildegard G. (Hildegard Gertrude)