Picklocks

Part of speech: noun, verb

Definitions

1. A tool used to manipulate the pins in a lock cylinder to open it without a key
2. A technique employed to gain unauthorized access to a locked mechanism
3. A person skilled at bypassing security devices through the use of specific instruments or methods

Etymology: "Picklocks" is the plural of "picklock", a compound of "pick" and "lock". The first element is the familiar verb and noun meaning a pointed tool used to probe or prise something open, while "lock" is the fastening itself, so the pair describes a slender implement used to work open a lock without its key. The noun is the older of the two forms in the sense of the tool, and the plural names the set of such tools a thief or locksmith carries.

Synonyms: lockpicks, locksmith tools