Latchkey Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
latchkey
[หlรฆtสki ]
Definition
home access
A latchkey refers to a key that is used to open a latch or lock, typically for a door. It is often associated with children who have a key to their home, allowing them to enter unsupervised when their parents are not home. The term can also symbolize independence and responsibility among children.
Synonyms
door key, house key, key.
Examples of usage
- She has a latchkey to get into her house after school.
- Many latchkey kids learn to take care of themselves.
- He always kept the latchkey on a chain around his neck.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Context
- In the 1980s and 1990s, the term became widely recognized in North America, associated with 'latchkey kids'โchildren who were left at home while parents worked.
- Latchkey kids often developed independence as they learned to take care of themselves at a young age.
Psychology
- Studies have shown that latchkey children may experience feelings of neglect but also develop coping skills and self-sufficiency.
- Research indicates that the emotional impact of being a latchkey child can vary widely, depending on family dynamics.
Legislation and Policy
- In response to concerns about latchkey kids, some schools and communities have introduced after-school programs to provide supervision.
- The phenomenon has influenced discussions about work-life balance, parental leave policies, and childcare options.
Media Representation
- Latchkey characters appear frequently in literature and television, often depicted as resilient or adventurous due to their independence.
- Popular media, like books and movies, often explore themes of solitude and self-discovery through the experiences of latchkey kids.
Origin of 'latchkey'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'latchkey' comes from the combination of 'latch' (the locking mechanism) and 'key' (the tool that opens it).
- It was first recorded in the English language in the 19th century, reflecting changes in household arrangements.
The term 'latchkey' has its roots in Middle English, originating from the combination of 'latch', which denotes a fastening mechanism for doors, and 'key', the instrument used to operate that fastening. Historically, these terms evolved from Old Norse 'lวซttr' (latch) and Old English 'cรฆg' (key). The usage of 'latchkey' grew, especially in the 20th century, to reflect changing social dynamics, particularly in urban environments, where more children began to stay home alone due to parents' work commitments. This led to the phenomenon of 'latchkey kids', a term that reflects the independence some children had in managing their home environment while their parents were away. As society progressed, the concept became a point of discussion regarding child safety and development, emphasizing the balance between independence and supervision.