French translation of keyhole is 
trou de serrure

Meaning of "keyhole" in English

The term "keyhole" refers to the small opening in a lock where a key is inserted to operate the lock mechanism. Traditionally, keyholes are designed to be just large enough to accommodate the key that operates the specific lock. They serve a critical function in providing security by allowing only specific keys to turn the lock. Keyholes are commonly found in doors, safes, and various mechanical devices requiring controlled access. Over time, the concept of the keyhole has also been adapted in technology, such as in digital security, symbolizing access or entry.

Meaning of "trou de serrure" in French

In French, "trou de serrure" translates to "keyhole," referring to the small aperture in a lock through which a key is inserted to engage or disengage the locking mechanism. This critical component is essential for security, allowing entry only when the correct key is used. The "trou de serrure" can be found in various locking devices on doors, cabinets, and safes. Besides its literal meaning, the term can be used metaphorically in expressions or idioms, frequently implying a means to gain insight or access into something else, similar to its use in English.

Pronunciation of "keyhole" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈkiː.hoʊl/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "keyhole" might slightly vary based on regional accents. In British English, it is typically pronounced with a more rounded "o" sound, whereas in American English, the "o" tends to be shorter and flatter. Nonetheless, the general pronunciation remains quite consistent across English dialects.

Pronunciation of "trou de serrure" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /tʁu d(ə) səʁyʁ/

Pronunciation Variations: In standard French, "trou de serrure" is pronounced with a mid-rounded front vowel in "trou" and a soft "r" that is typically guttural. Regional pronunciations may alter the emphasis slightly, especially in areas where the vowel sounds might vary or the "r" becomes more pronounced.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. She peeked through the keyhole to see who was at the door. (Elle a regardé à travers le trou de serrure pour voir qui était à la porte.)
2. The keyhole in the old chest was rusty and needed oiling. (Le trou de serrure du vieux coffre était rouillé et avait besoin d'huile.)
3. I lost the key, so I can't lock the door's keyhole. (J'ai perdu la clé, donc je ne peux pas verrouiller le trou de serrure de la porte.)
4. He tried to fit the wrong key into the keyhole, causing it to jam. (Il a essayé de mettre la mauvaise clé dans le trou de serrure, ce qui l'a bloqué.)
5. The design of the keyhole matched the intricate pattern of the door handle. (Le design du trou de serrure correspondait au motif complexe de la poignée de porte.)
6. Children often envision magical worlds beyond the keyhole. (Les enfants imaginent souvent des mondes magiques au-delà du trou de serrure.)
7. Don't look through the keyhole, it's not polite. (Ne regarde pas à travers le trou de serrure, ce n'est pas poli.)
8. The locksmith examined the keyhole before crafting a new key. (Le serrurier a examiné le trou de serrure avant de fabriquer une nouvelle clé.)
9. A tiny light shone through the keyhole, hinting at life inside. (Une petite lumière brillait à travers le trou de serrure, indiquant une présence à l'intérieur.)
10. Each keyhole in the mansion had a unique key crafted for it. (Chaque trou de serrure dans le manoir avait une clé unique fabriquée pour lui.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "keyhole" in English

Synonyms: aperture, slot, cavity, opening, orifice.

Antonyms: blockade, obstruction, closure.

Similar Words: peephole, slot, latch, lock, port.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "trou de serrure" in French

Synonyms: orifice, ouverture, fente, entrée.

Antonyms: blocage, obstruction, fermeture.

Similar Words: judas, fente, serrure, mécanisme.

Disclaimer: These examples may contain sensitive content that does not reflect the opinions or policies of Translate.com, or its company Translate LLC. We welcome feedback: report an example sentence to our team.