Keychain: meaning, definitions and examples

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keychain

 

[ ˈkiːˌtʃeɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

accessory holder

A keychain is a small chain, usually made of metal or plastic, that is used for holding keys together. They are often a practical accessory that makes carrying keys easier and more organized. Keychains can also be used to hold other small items or can incorporate features like flashlights or openers. They often serve as a personal or decorative item, showcasing a person's interests or affiliations. The keychain often symbolizes convenience and personalization.

Synonyms

key fob, key holder, keyring

Examples of usage

  • She collected souvenir keychains from all her travels.
  • His keychain was full of various keys for home and office.
  • The promotional keychain had the company's logo on it.
  • He noticed his keys were easier to find with the large keychain.
  • The keychain doubled as a bottle opener during the picnic.

Translations

Translations of the word "keychain" in other languages:

🇵🇹 chaveiro

🇮🇳 चाबी का गुच्छा

🇩🇪 Schlüsselanhänger

🇮🇩 gantungan kunci

🇺🇦 брелок для ключів

🇵🇱 brelok do kluczy

🇯🇵 キーチェーン

🇫🇷 porte-clés

🇪🇸 llavero

🇹🇷 anahtarlık

🇰🇷 열쇠고리

🇸🇦 حامل مفاتيح

🇨🇿 klíčenka

🇸🇰 kľúčenka

🇨🇳 钥匙链

🇸🇮 ključavnica

🇮🇸 lyklakippa

🇰🇿 кілт ілгегі

🇬🇪 კვანძის საკეტი

🇦🇿 açar dəsti

🇲🇽 llavero

Word origin

The term 'keychain' is composed of the words 'key' and 'chain.' The word 'key' originates from Old English 'cah,' meaning a device that opens locks. 'Chain' comes from the Latin word 'catena', implying a series of connected links. The keychain as an accessory likely emerged in the early 20th century as keys became more common with the rise of automobiles and residential locks. As people needed to keep multiple keys organized, the idea of attaching them to a chain or ring quickly became popular. Over time, keychains have evolved into personal items that reflect an individual's interests, affiliations, and memories, leading to the variety of styles seen today. In addition to their practical use, keychains are often given as gifts or used for promotional purposes, further enhancing their presence in modern culture.