skeleton key

noun

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

skeleton key

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of skeleton key¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Word History and Origins

Origin of skeleton key¹

C19: so called because it has been reduced to its essential parts