picklocks

Bypass locked doors

Picklocks are tools designed to open locks without the proper key, used by locksmiths and burglars alike.

The term can also refer to people who pick locks: The picklocks worked quickly before the guards returned.

A single tool is a picklock; the plural covers either multiple tools or multiple practitioners.

burglary

break-in

Unlawful entry to premises

housebreakingTraining pets' bathroom habits
trespassUnauthorized entry onto property
intruderUnauthorized person present

burglar · theft · larceny · heist · criminal · safecracker · prowler · nightwork · robbery · felony

mechanism

tumblers

Stemless drinking glasses

keyholeOpening for a lock
pinsPointed sewing fasteners
cylinderCircular-based solid form

latch · bolt · wafer · spring · binding · feedback · tension · click · rotation · core

tools

rake

Tined yard implement

decoderDevice that unscrambles signals
shimThin piece for leveling
bypassRoute that skirts obstacles

technique

raking

Dragging tines across ground

scrubbingCleaning by rubbing hard
bumpingLight repeated collision
impressioningLock bypass via blank filing

decoding · bypass · manipulation · feedback · finesse · zipping · rocking

espionage

spycraft

Methods of secret agents

clandestineConcealed from authorities
covertIntentionally concealed
undercoverSecretly engaged in espionage

infiltration · agent · tradecraft · operative · safehouse · intelligence · mole · surveillance · exfiltration

security

alarm

Urgent warning signal

vaultSecure storage chamber
safeFree from peril
authenticationConfirming genuine identity

countermeasures · deadbolt

Opposites

legitimacy of access

picklockskeys

Lock-operating instruments

master keys · key cards · access codes · keycodes · passwords

security function

picklockslocks

Security fastening devices

deadbolts · padlocks · security systems · bolts · latches

Family

Familiarity: Top 500,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G