passe-partout

noun

passe-par·​tout ˌpas-pər-ˈtü How to pronounce passe-partout (audio)
-ˌpär-
1
: master key
opened the door with a passe-partout
2
b
: a method of framing in which a picture, a mat, a glass, and a back (as of cardboard) are held together by strips of paper or cloth pasted over the edges
a picture framed in passe-partout
3
: a strong paper gummed on one side and used especially for mounting pictures

Word History

Etymology

French, from passe partout pass everywhere

First Known Use

1675, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of passe-partout was in 1675

Dictionary Entries Near passe-partout

Cite this Entry

“Passe-partout.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/passe-partout. Accessed 27 Sep. 2023.

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