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

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 fire is laid, the cupboard stored, the latchstring is hanging where you'll see it as you cross the state line.

From The Precipice by Peattie, Elia Wilkinson

As long as they found it comfortable and convenient the latchstring was out.

From Historic Papers on the Causes of the Civil War by Potts, Eugenia Dunlap

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)