picklock

[ pik-lok ]

noun

1. a person who picks a lock, especially a burglar.
2. a thief.
3. an instrument for picking a lock; lockpick.

picklock

/ ˈpɪkˌlɒk /

noun

1. a person who picks locks, esp one who gains unlawful access to premises by this means
2. an instrument for picking locks

Word History and Origins

Origin of picklock¹

First recorded in 1545–55; pick ¹ + lock ¹

Example Sentences

It appears to be a kind of picklock, an open sesame, Tanner—Tawno!

From Project Gutenberg

A picklock lay on the floor betraying how she had gained entrance in the night, and that was the only trace of her.

From Project Gutenberg

The picklock on the bedroom floor remained the one last useless trace of the Dream-Woman.

From Project Gutenberg

Beside me stood Picklock Holes, wrapped in a heavy, close-fitting fur moujik.

From Project Gutenberg

But when he was going to insert a picklock, the door opened and Abb Fortier appeared, with fiery eye and hair bristling.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• crook
• robber
• thief