Word Direct Answers

What does "latch" mean?

Latch: That which fastens or holds; a lace; a snare. [Obs.] Rom. of R.

Additional senses

  1. 2.A movable piece which holds anything in place by entering a notch or cavity; specifically, the catch which holds a door or gate when closed, though it be not bolted.
  2. 3.(Naut.) A latching.
  3. 4.A crossbow. [Obs.] Wright.
  4. 5.To catch so as to hold. [Obs.] Those that remained threw darts at our men, and latching our darts, sent them again at us. Golding.
  5. 6.To catch or fasten by means of a latch. The door was only latched. Locke.

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