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

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)

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

Jerry led the way, and with a night key opened the door to the kitchen.

From The Young Oarsmen of Lakeview by Bonehill, Ralph

The old switchman lends me his night key.

From Bart Stirling's Road to Success Or, The Young Express Agent by Chapman, Allen