De sleutel
Example: Ik heb de sleutel van de deur verloren.
Definition
"De sleutel" refers to a small metal instrument used to open or close a lock, typically found on doors. It is essential for gaining access to secured places, such as rooms or buildings, as in the phrase 'Ik heb de sleutel van de deur verloren' which means 'I have lost the key to the door.'
Etymology
The Dutch word "de sleutel" originates from the Old Dutch word 'sclētel,' which is related to the German 'Schlüssel' and English 'key.' It is believed to come from the Proto-Germanic root *skuttilaz, meaning 'to shut or lock.' Did you know that keys have been used since ancient times, symbolizing authority and access?
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"De sleutel" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - (Mixed) - set 1", containing 20 commonly used words.
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