keyhole

1 of 2

noun

key·​hole ˈkē-ˌhōl How to pronounce keyhole (audio)
1
: a hole for receiving a key
2

keyhole

2 of 2

adjective

1
: revealingly intimate
a keyhole report
2
: intent on revealing intimate details
keyhole columnists

Examples of keyhole in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
The black velvet fabric is lovely, as is the keyhole brooch at her neckline. Rachel Tashjian, Washington Post, 11 Mar. 2024 As well as a series of opening door pendants, the collection features statement rings, drop earrings, stacking archway rings scattered with gems and keyhole pendants designed to encourage the wearer to unlock their hearts’ desires. Kate Matthams, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2024 Garments and accessories paraded down the runway, such as a dress adorned with microchips, paying homage to the original codes devised by the founder of the historic maison, similar to keyholes with locks and the fascinating interest in human anatomy. Pino Gagliardi, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 Jan. 2024 Her azure blue getup—a futuristic, sharp-shoulder minidress with a keyhole cutout—comes complete with a little cap and chandelier earrings. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 11 Jan. 2024 And, of course, no Schiaparelli collection is complete without an homage to Elsa Schiaparelli herself, and Roseberry delivered with keyhole motifs and turbans galore. Nicole Phelps, Vogue, 11 Dec. 2023 Available in bright red (but also in muted metallics like gold, black, and copper), this three-quarter length polyester blouse has a keyhole in the neckline and airy, peasant-esque sleeves that be dressed up with midi skirts and boots, or paired with jeans for a more casual look. Stephanie Osmanski, Southern Living, 2 Dec. 2023 Each receiver has a keyhole and a double-sided adhesive to attach to various items around the house. Hannah Rice, Rolling Stone, 13 Dec. 2023 There’s a sweet keyhole detail at the neckline, plus plenty of color options to choose from, including neutrals and florals. Terri Peters, Parents, 9 Oct. 2023
Adjective
The look also had a keyhole neckline embellished with Swarovski crystals of varying sizes. Hedy Phillips, Peoplemag, 3 Jan. 2023 Equipping the arm with a surgical tool, such as a gripper or cutter, will give surgeons a way to conduct keyhole surgery in a more intuitive and safe manner. Kaspar Althoefer, Discover Magazine, 19 May 2015 That system represents a keyhole view, and its analysis lags behind events. Maryn McKenna, WIRED, 19 Dec. 2022 The evening ended with Lopez in a mermaid silhouette dress featuring a keyhole neckline accented with Swarovski crystals, and a sheer, removable hood-like veil. Alexandra Schonfeld, Peoplemag, 2 Sep. 2022 The handsome, timeless design is instantly recognizable with its keyhole bridge, gold arrows at the edges, and Meflecto system. Mike Richard, Men's Health, 17 May 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'keyhole.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1504, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of keyhole was in 1504

Dictionary Entries Near keyhole

Cite this Entry

“Keyhole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/keyhole. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

keyhole

noun
key·​hole
ˈkē-ˌhōl
: a hole for receiving a key

Medical Definition

keyhole

adjective
key·​hole ˈkē-ˌhōl How to pronounce keyhole (audio)
1
: relating to, used in, or being a minimally invasive operation or surgical procedure (as laparoscopy or arthroscopy) in which one or more small incisions are made to permit passage of instruments (as an endoscope and forceps) into the body
keyhole surgery for gall bladder removal
2
: being a small incision made in keyhole surgery

More from Merriam-Webster on keyhole

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