latchkey

American  

[lach-kee] / ˈlætʃˌki /

noun

plural

latchkeys

1. a key for releasing a latch or springlock, especially on an outer door.

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latchkey British  

/ ˈlætʃˌkiː /

noun

1. a key for an outside door or gate, esp one that lifts a latch

2. 1. a supposed freedom from restrictions

   2. ( as modifier )

      a latchkey existence

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Etymology

Origin of latchkey

First recorded in 1815–25; latch + key ¹

Example Sentences

Since I was a latchkey kid, I needed to find something else to do after school.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

"Dinosaurs were more like latchkey kids," Holtz said.

From Science Daily • Feb. 27, 2026

She mentions: "I was a latchkey kid, so I grew up with a lot of fast food and TV tray meals."

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2025

I think for latchkey kids of the ‘80s and ‘90s, celebrities filled in for the family members we wish we had.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 28, 2023

After-school junk food is another fundamental right of the latchkey child.

From "When You Reach Me" by Rebecca Stead