skeleton key

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

His latest film is a skeleton key that unlocks the answers, Sam Adams writes.

From Slate • Jun. 30, 2023

Those looking for a felt skeleton key to unlock his various idiosyncrasies aren’t likely to find one.

From New York Times • Mar. 11, 2023

Their relationship, according to “The Last of Us” co-creator and executive producer Craig Mazin, is “ultimately … the skeleton key to unlock all of this show.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 1, 2023

Handmade in Blaine, Washington, they feature rich oil-tanned leather, nylon stitching, metal hardware and an antique skeleton key.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 13, 2021

Only a professional, using a specialized "skeleton key," could have turned that lock, Gordievsky thought.

From "Spies: The Secret Showdown Between America and Russia" by Marc Favreau