keyhole

1 of 2

noun

key·​hole ˈkē-ˌhōl How to pronounce keyhole (audio)
Synonyms of keyholenext
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
This $6 T-shirt is easy to dress up, thanks to its stylish keyhole neckline with silver hardware. Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 11 Apr. 2026 These dark red French tips look so mystical, thanks to keyhole cutouts with frosty white airbrushing inside. Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 10 Apr. 2026
Adjective
The look also had a keyhole neckline embellished with Swarovski crystals of varying sizes. Hedy Phillips, Peoplemag, 3 Jan. 2023 That system represents a keyhole view, and its analysis lags behind events. Maryn McKenna, WIRED, 19 Dec. 2022 See All Example Sentences for keyhole

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Keyhole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/keyhole. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.

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

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