1. plural of latchkey: keys used to open a latch, especially a front door key
2. children who regularly let themselves into an empty home after school because their parents are working
Usage: often used attributively as ‘latchkey kids’ or ‘latchkey children’

Examples

• She gave each of her children latchkeys so they could get home safely.
• The latchkeys were hanging on hooks by the front door.
• Many latchkeys learn to be independent at an early age.
• The after-school program was designed to help latchkeys with homework.
• He lost his latchkeys and had to wait outside until his parents returned.
• The neighborhood had many latchkeys who walked home together for safety.