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
With a loose fit, halter neckline, keyhole back, and two side pockets, this one is just the right combination of comfort and style. Enjanae' Taylor, Southern Living, 14 Aug. 2023 Available in 20 colors and patterns, the top has an eyelet design, petal sleeves, pleats down the front, and a keyhole with a metal ring closure. Isabel Garcia, Peoplemag, 12 July 2023 One of them peels fading wallpaper to reveal a keyhole and finds an eye peering at her from the other side. Frank Scheck, The Hollywood Reporter, 5 July 2023 There’s also a fun keyhole cutout in the back, which helps keep you cool at the beach or by the lake. Stephanie Osmanski, Southern Living, 11 June 2023 The look also had a keyhole neckline embellished with Swarovski crystals of varying sizes. 23 Close to You Another On The JLo post-reception image evoked Old Hollywood glam. Kate Hogan, Peoplemag, 17 Aug. 2023 The bikini top straps were down and tied to form a keyhole at her bust, with the strings hanging down. Aimée Lutkin, ELLE, 9 July 2023 The fabric is soft yet durable and the keyhole design under the breast is so flattering and gives this dress some personality. Emily Shiffer, womenshealthmag.com, 11 May 2023 The keyhole racerback and loose hem both let the breeze flow through. Laura Lajiness Kaupke, Women's Health, 9 Aug. 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 See More

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 26 Sep. 2023.

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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