latch Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun spring-loaded doorlock that can only be opened from the outside with a key
    door latch.
  2. noun catch for fastening a door or gate; a bar that can be lowered or slid into a groove
  3. verb fasten with a latch
    • latch the door

WordNet

Latch transitive verb
Etymology
Cf. F. lécher to lick (of German origin). Cf. Lick.
Definitions
  1. To smear; to anoint. Obs. Shak.
Latch noun
Etymology
OE. lacche, fr. lacchen to seize, As. læccan.
Definitions
  1. That which fastens or holds; a lace; a snare. Obs. Rom. of R.
  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.
  3. (Naut.) A latching.
  4. A crossbow. Obs. Wright.
Latch transitive verb
Etymology
OE.lacchen. See Latch. n.
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Latched ; present participle & verbal noun Latching
Definitions
  1. 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.
  2. To catch or fasten by means of a latch.
    The door was only latched. Locke.

Webster 1913