skeleton key

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A key with a simple shape that can open many different locks, often used by caretakers or locksmiths.

   Grammar: Takes an or the: a skeleton key.

   Patterns

   • use a skeleton key
   • open with a skeleton key

   The caretaker opened every classroom with a skeleton key.

   In old movies the thief picks the lock with a skeleton key.

   The hotel kept a skeleton key for emergencies.

2. 2nouncountablefigurative

   Something that gives access to many things or solves many problems at once.

   Grammar: Mainly in writing, as a comparison: a skeleton key to the city.

   Patterns

   • a skeleton key to something

   A good education is a skeleton key to many careers.

   The password worked like a skeleton key to the whole system.

Word forms

Common combinations

use a skeleton key

The janitor used a skeleton key to open the door.

a skeleton key to

This course is a skeleton key to the industry.

an old skeleton key

She found an old skeleton key in the drawer.

open with a skeleton key

The cabinet opens with a skeleton key.

Synonyms and how they differ

master key

A master key opens every lock in a particular building and is made for that purpose, while a skeleton key fits many locks by a simple shape.

passkey

Passkey is a general word for any key or code giving access, usually less specific than skeleton key.

lockpick

A lockpick is a tool for opening locks without the right key, while a skeleton key acts as the key itself.

Word family

skeleton noun

The bones of a body, giving the key its name.

key noun

A device that opens a lock.

Commonly confused: skeleton key or master key?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “skeleton key”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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