How Do You Spell LATCHKEY KID?

Pronunciation: [lˈat͡ʃkɪ kˈɪd] (IPA)

The term "latchkey kid" refers to a child who comes home to an empty house after school, typically due to working parents. The spelling of "latchkey" is based on its pronunciation, which is [ˈlætʃki]. The "l" represents the initial consonant sound, followed by the short "a" vowel sound, represented by "a". The "tch" digraph represents the "ch" sound, followed by the "e" vowel sound and the final consonant "y". This term gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s in the United States, but is still commonly used today.

LATCHKEY KID Meaning and Definition

1. A "latchkey kid" refers to a child who is of school age and often comes home to an empty house or apartment after school because their parent(s) or guardian(s) are still at work. The term "latchkey" is derived from the notion that these children carry a key to their home on a string or keychain, and they use it to enter the house without parental supervision. This phenomenon became prevalent during the latter part of the 20th century, when many parents were required to work outside the home to support their families.

   Latchkey kids usually spend a significant amount of time alone until their parents return from work, and they are responsible for taking care of themselves during this period. They may be tasked with making their own snacks or meals, completing homework, and managing their personal safety. Latchkey kids may also need to manage their time effectively and make independent decisions.

   The term "latchkey kid" often carries a connotation of independence and self-sufficiency, as these children often develop resilience and adaptability due to their circumstances. However, it also highlights the potential risks that come with unsupervised time, such as vulnerability to accidents, lack of emotional support, or exposure to potential dangers.

   Society recognizes the significance of latchkey kids in terms of their unique challenges and experiences. Various educational programs, after-school activities, and community initiatives have been implemented to provide support and a structured environment for latchkey kids, promoting their well-being, development, and safety.

Common Misspellings for LATCHKEY KID

• katchkey kid
• patchkey kid
• oatchkey kid
• lztchkey kid
• lstchkey kid
• lwtchkey kid
• lqtchkey kid
• larchkey kid
• lafchkey kid
• lagchkey kid
• laychkey kid
• la6chkey kid
• la5chkey kid
• latxhkey kid
• latvhkey kid
• latfhkey kid
• latdhkey kid
• latcgkey kid
• latcbkey kid
• latcnkey kid

Etymology of LATCHKEY KID

The term "latchkey kid" dates back to the mid-20th century in the United States. It is a compound noun formed by combining two words: "latchkey" and "kid".

The word "latchkey" refers to a key that can be used to open a latch or lock, usually on a door. It comes from the combination of "latch" (a device used to hold a door or gate closed) and "key" (a small metal tool used to lock or unlock something). The term "latchkey" was commonly used to describe a key that was carried by a person, typically a child, to gain access to their home when no one else was there.

The word "kid" is a colloquial term used to refer to a child or young person.

Idioms with the word LATCHKEY KID

• latchkey kid A latchkey kid is a child who is often left unsupervised at home after school because their parents are working or absent.

Similar spelling word for LATCHKEY KID

• latchkey child.

Plural form of LATCHKEY KID is LATCHKEY KIDS