latch

A fastening, as for a door or gate, typically consisting of a bar that fits into a notch or slot and is lifted from either side by a lever or string.

A spring lock, as for a door, that is opened from the outside by a key.

To close or lock with a latch.

To have or be closed with a latch.

To shut tightly so that the latch is engaged.

(on to/onto) To get hold of; obtain.

(on to/onto) To cling to.

A miry place.

A device for catching or retaining something; a catch.

A kind of gravity-lock, or door fastening consisting of some form of pivoted bolt falling into and catching against a catch or stop. Latches are usually made with a lifter or lever for raising the bar from either side of the door. Some simple forms consist merely of a wooden baron the inside, which is raised by a string passed through a hole in the door, Door- and gate-latches are made in many forms, and are described by their names, rim-, night-, thumb-latches, etc.