latchstring

American  

[lach-string] / ˈlætʃˌstrɪŋ /

noun

1. a string passed through a hole in a door, for raising the latch from the outside.

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latchstring British  

/ ˈlætʃˌstrɪŋ /

noun

1. a length of string fastened to a latch and passed through a hole in the door so that it can be opened from the other side

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Etymology

Origin of latchstring

First recorded in 1785–95; latch + string

Example Sentences

The latchstring is on the outside, and we are all tickled to death that you pulled it.

From Time Magazine Archive

Orville; 3. latchstring; Since the creation of the Jewish state in 1948, the Israelis have tried to cultivate relations with non-Arab nations in the Middle East, such as Turkey and Iran.

From Time Magazine Archive

He associates a latchstring with the opening of the door.

From The Mad Planet by Leinster, Murray

"Ordinarily, young man, the latchstring of my home is out and the boys and the girls are welcome here to make merry in a sociable way."

From When Egypt Went Broke by Day, Holman

But, though the latchstring of welcome is always out, he will never toss it in your face, for he, too, has a dignity that awaits approach.

From The Welsh Pony Described in two letters to a friend by Dargan, Olive Tilford