2006-06-29 16:18:33 · 4 answers · asked by Dan The Man 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Other - Society & Culture
A skeleton key (or passkey) is a very simple design of key which usually has a cylindrical shaft and a single flat, rectangular tooth. As such, it is also the easiest type of key and lock to make. The locks for these keys provide minimal security and only a slight deterrent as any key with a shaft and tooth that has the same or smaller dimensions will open the lock. Many other objects which can fit into the lock may also be able to open it. Due to its limited usefulness, this type of key and lock fell out of use after more complicated types became easier to manufacture. In modern usage, it has come to describe a key, usually with minimal features, which can open all or most of a type of badly designed lock.
A few car manufacturers such as Ford Motor Company sell skeleton keys for some of their locks to mechanics in order to aid servicing. This practice is naturally not very publicized.
2006-06-29 16:22:56 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is a key that can open every door in the house. That is if all the locks are original and it came with the house.
2006-06-29 23:22:31 · answer #2 · answered by sexylilgirl_idealmgf 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is a foundation for many sets of keys...so it fits most locks....if it is a skeleton key for doors....it fits most doors...etc...
2006-06-29 23:22:23 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because of the shape looked like a skelleton
2006-06-29 23:22:14 · answer #4 · answered by bigdaddydon62 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋