DictionaryRoot: læccan
Old English

læccan

to grasp, seize

1 / 1
Close-up of a simple metal gate latch engaged in its catch, visibly fastening a closed wooden gate to its post.
noun / verb

latch

LACH/lætʃ/

A catch that holds something closed, or fastening something with one.

Etymology

The fastening's name probably comes from a verb meaning “to grasp or seize.” A latch is thus a device that catches and holds, keeping a door or gate closed.

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