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.

It’s why the conventional wisdom that air traffic controllers are the skeleton key to ending a government shutdown is so odd.

From Slate • Nov. 7, 2025

“Megadoc” is not exactly a skeleton key for understanding “Megalopolis,” but it is useful and insightful, full of scenes of conflict followed by resolution, understanding emerging from confusion.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 19, 2025

“Microsoft should not have had a single skeleton key that, when inevitably stolen, could be used to forge access to different customers’ private communications.”

From Seattle Times • Aug. 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

“It's the secret language they all understand. Do you see? It's the skeleton key that unlocks every door.”

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor