latchkey
/ˈlætʃˌkiː/
noun
- A key for opening a door or gate, especially one with a latch.
- The old latchkey was rusty but still worked perfectly.
- She kept a latchkey hidden under the doormat for emergencies.
- He fumbled in his pocket for the latchkey to the back door.
- Used in the phrase 'latchkey child' to refer to a child who is often home alone after school because their parents are at work.
- She grew up as a latchkey child and learned to cook for herself.
- The after-school program was created to support latchkey kids.
- Many latchkey children learn to be independent at a young age.
Synonyms