passe-partout

• Substantiv mit zwei Bedeutungen: ein Generalschlüssel, der alle Türen eines Gebäudes öffnet, oder eine Methode zur Befestigung eines Bildes mit Klebeband (Passepartout).

A noun with two distinct meanings: a master key that opens all doors in a building, or a method of mounting a picture using gummed tape.

1. Master keyC1formal

   A key that can open all locks in a building or system, providing universal access.

   Universalschlüssel

   • The caretaker used a passe-partout to enter every room in the museum.
   • Only the manager holds the passe-partout for the entire office complex.
   • The security system was designed so that a single passe-partout could override all locks.

   Synonymemaster keypasskeyskeleton key

2. Picture mountingC1formal

   A method of mounting a picture or artwork using a piece of gummed tape or a mat to secure it within a frame.

   Passepartout

   • The artist used a passe-partout to mount the print neatly in the frame.
   • A passe-partout gives a clean, professional look to a framed photograph.
   • The gallery preferred passe-partout mounting for its simplicity and elegance.

   Synonymemattingmounting