A latch is a small piece of metal or wood. It helps keep doors or gates closed. You lift or slide it to open.
Close the latch to lock the door.
The gate has a simple latch on it.
To latch means to use a latch to close or lock something. You make sure the door or window is fastened and will not open easily.
She latched the door before leaving.
Latch the window to keep it closed.
To latch can also mean to grab or hold something firmly. People or animals can latch onto a person or object to keep close or not let go.
The child latched onto his mother’s hand.
She latched onto the old idea quickly.
A latch in electronics is a special circuit that holds a value (on or off). It remembers the signal until a new signal changes it.
This latch stores a bit in the circuit.
The digital latch keeps its output stable.
In breastfeeding, to latch means the baby fastens its mouth firmly to the mother’s breast. This helps the baby feed well and comfortably.
The baby latched quickly to the breast.
Make sure your baby latches properly.
A latch can be a tool or part of a machine. It holds pieces together or in place until you release it.
The latch holds the machine parts tight.
Release the latch to open the device.
To latch can mean to stick or attach closely to an object or idea. This can be physical or figurative, like holding an idea in your mind.
The coat latched to the chair tightly.
He latched onto the idea quickly.
