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.

Introducing the 688-page biography this way seems designed to address Musk’s recent turn towards combativeness and cruelty — if not justifying it, then offering a skeleton key to understanding where it’s rooted.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 11, 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

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

The virus uses its spike protein like a skeleton key to ease open cells.

From Washington Post • Jun. 7, 2021

I gave him his box of mementos and watched as he fingered each one: the Wiggle King fishing lure, the silver dollar, the cork, little Eva’s nesting doll, and the skeleton key.

From "Moon Over Manifest" by Clare Vanderpool