night key

American  

noun

1. a key for a night latch.

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Etymology

Origin of night key

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

Cornelius opened the door with a night key, and bade Herbert follow.

From Herbert Carter's Legacy by Alger, Horatio

Willy Cameron came home from a night class in metallurgy the evening after the day Lily had made her declaration of independence, and let himself in with his night key.

From A Poor Wise Man by Rinehart, Mary Roberts

Shortly after parting with Wise, the great government special, Oscar went on to the street, and proceeding up town entered a very respectable-looking house which he entered with a night key.

From Cad Metti, The Female Detective Strategist Dudie Dunne Again in the Field by Halsey, Harlan Page

The officer let himself into the house with a night key, and the two ascended the stairs, at the top of which the officer led the lad into a small but comfortable room.

From The Boy Allies at Liege by Hayes, Clair W. (Clair Wallace)

It was a mistake of his wife to allow Peter Junior a night key.

From The Eye of Dread by Erskine, Payne