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skeleton key

   Also found in: Encyclopedia, Wikipedia 0.04 sec.
skeleton key
n.
A key with a large portion of the bit filed away so that it can open different locks. Also called passkey.
skeleton key
n
(Engineering / Tools) a key with the serrated edge filed down so that it can open numerous locks Also called passkey
[so called because it has been reduced to its essential parts]
ThesaurusLegend:  Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
Noun1.skeleton key - a passkey with much of the bit filed away so that it can open different locks
master key, passe-partout, passkey, master - key that secures entrance everywhere
Translations
skeleton key n → passe-partout m inv
skeleton key n → passe-partout m inv


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? Mentioned in ? References in classic literature
 
Quietly he inserted a slim, skeleton key in the lock of the door.
The Son Of Tarzan by Burroughs, Edgar Rice View in context
He withdrew his arm, a skeleton key was selected from the bunch, and then back went his arm to the shoulder.
The Amateur Cracksman by Hornung, E. W. View in context
And there was no need for the skeleton key after all; the boy opened the outer door with one of his own, and switched on the lights before leaving us.
Raffles, Further Adventures Of The Amateur Cracksman by Hornung, E. W. View in context
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