latchstring

noun

latch·​string ˈlach-ˌstriŋ How to pronounce latchstring (audio)
: a string on a latch that may be left hanging outside the door to permit the raising of the latch from the outside or drawn inside to prevent intrusion

Word History

First Known Use

1791, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of latchstring was in 1791

Dictionary Entries Near latchstring

Cite this Entry

“Latchstring.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/latchstring. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

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