Latched: meaning, definitions and examples

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latched

 

[lรฆtสƒt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

mechanical sense

Latched refers to the action of securing or fastening something with a latch, which is a type of fastener. It commonly means to close a door or gate by engaging a device that holds it in place. This term can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts, indicating that something is firmly secured or held tightly. It is often used when referring to closing doors, windows, or other openings to ensure they stay shut.

Synonyms

closed, fastened, secured.

Examples of usage

  • She latched the door behind her.
  • The engineer latched the mechanism for safety.
  • He latched the window to keep the cold out.
Context #2 | Verb

emotional sense

Latched can also describe the attachment or connection formed with someone or something on an emotional level. In this sense, it means to become attached or reliant on a person, idea, or experience. This usage implies a deep connection or bond that is difficult to sever.

Synonyms

attached, bonded, linked.

Examples of usage

  • She latched onto the idea of traveling.
  • He latched onto his mentor for guidance.
  • They latched together in friendship during tough times.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'latched' comes from the Middle English word 'lachen,' which meant to secure or catch.
  • In Old Norse, 'lวซttr' also meant to fasten or close, showing how languages linked to security.
  • The term has evolved over centuries, initially referring to simple mechanical devices used in homes.

Mechanical Engineering

  • Latches are mechanical devices that have been used for thousands of years, highlighting ancient engineering skills.
  • Different designs of latches exist, such as sliding, cam, and magnetic types, each serving unique security needs.
  • Modern technology includes electronic latches that can be unlocked with a smartphone, offering convenience and security.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the act of latching doors symbolizes safety and protection from outside dangers.
  • Latching rituals, like doing a latch before a big journey, can be found in various folklore, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding.
  • In literature, a 'latched' door often signifies a barrier to mystery or the unknown, inviting curiosity.

Psychology

  • The need for security, symbolized by a latched door, taps into basic human instincts for safety and protection.
  • Closure practices, like latching doors, may relate to feelings of control and stability in a world of unpredictability.
  • Studies show that physical security can influence psychological comfort, highlighting the latch's emotional significance.

Pop Culture

  • In many movies, characters often latch doors to signify danger lurking outside, amplifying suspense.
  • Songs and poems frequently use 'latch' as a metaphor for relationships, symbolizing commitment and security.
  • Interactive escape rooms often require participants to manipulate latches to solve puzzles, making them central to gameplay.

Translations

Translations of the word "latched" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น trancado

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฒเคŸเค•เฅ‡ เคนเฅเค

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช verriegelt

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ terkunci

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะทะฐั‡ะธะฝะตะฝะธะน

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ zatrzaล›niฤ™ty

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒญใƒƒใ‚ฏใ•ใ‚ŒใŸ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท verrouillรฉ

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ cerrado

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท kilitli

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ž ๊ธด

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู…ุบู„ู‚

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ uzamฤenรฝ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ zamknutรฝ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ้”ๅฎš็š„

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ zaklenjen

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ lรฆst

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ า›าฑะปั‹ะฟั‚ะฐะปา“ะฐะฝ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ“แƒแƒ™แƒ”แƒขแƒ˜แƒšแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ kilidli

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ cerrado

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,409, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.