unlatched
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Not fastened or secured with a latch: Describes a door, gate, or similar opening that is not held shut by a latch. It is not necessarily wide open, but is simply not locked or secured by that specific fastening mechanism.
- Unlocked; not bolted: Often implies a state of being accessible or not properly closed off.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- The wind blew the unlatched gate shut with a loud bang.
- For security, ensure no window or door is left unlatched overnight.
- She found the back door unlatched and quietly let herself in.
Advanced Usage
- Descriptive of Negligence or Oversight: Often used to describe a potential security risk or an accidental state.
- The detective noted the unlatched window as a possible point of entry for the intruder.
- Implied Accessibility: Can suggest an invitation or a lack of restriction, though not as strongly as "open."
- The garden gate was always unlatched, welcoming neighbors to visit.
Variants and Related Words
- Latch (noun/verb): The fastening device itself, or the action of fastening it.
- He lifted the latch and entered. (Noun)
- Please latch the gate behind you. (Verb)
- Unlatch (verb): The action of opening a latch.
- She unlatched the window to let in some fresh air.
- Unbarred (adjective): Similar in meaning, specifically referring to a bar being removed.
- Unlocked (adjective): A more general term; an unlatched door is often also unlocked, but "unlatched" specifies the type of fastening.
Synonyms
- Unfastened
- Unsecured
- Unbolted (when referring to a bolt-type latch)
Antonyms
- Latched
- Fastened
- Secured
- Locked (though a door can be latched but not locked)
Related Phrases/Idioms
- Leave the door unlatched: This can be used literally or figuratively to mean leaving an opportunity available or a situation unresolved.
- Figurative: By not signing the contract, they left the door unlatched for further negotiation.
Adjective
- not firmly fastened or secured
- an unbarred door
- went through the unlatched gate into the street
- an unlocked room