skeleton key

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It’s why the conventional wisdom that air traffic controllers are the skeleton key to ending a government shutdown is so odd.

From Slate • Nov. 7, 2025

Introducing the 688-page biography this way seems designed to address Musk’s recent turn towards combativeness and cruelty — if not justifying it, then offering a skeleton key to understanding where it’s rooted.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 11, 2023

Those looking for a felt skeleton key to unlock his various idiosyncrasies aren’t likely to find one.

From New York Times • Mar. 11, 2023

The two hand-delivered the resolution to the city government in Novorossiysk along with a symbolic large golden skeleton key.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 18, 2022

“It's the secret language they all understand. Do you see? It's the skeleton key that unlocks every door.”

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor