Useless fact
What is the metal plate around a keyhole called?
The protective or decorative metal plate that surrounds a keyhole on a door or drawer is called an escutcheon.
An escutcheon is a common piece of architectural hardware. Historically, the term comes from the Old French word escusson, meaning a shield, which itself derives from the Latin scutum. This etymological connection makes sense, as the primary function of an escutcheon is to shield the surrounding wood of a door or drawer from being scratched by a key or the handle. In addition to protecting the surface from wear and tear, escutcheons also serve an aesthetic purpose by neatly finishing the look of the lock cylinder or keyhole. They can prevent drafts from passing through the keyhole and help keep dust and debris out of the locking mechanism. Escutcheons are manufactured in a wide variety of materials, including brass, bronze, iron, and plastic, to match different architectural styles. The term is also used in heraldry to refer to a shield displaying a coat of arms, reflecting its defensive origins.
Why this is true — The term is defined in major English dictionaries, including Merriam-Webster and Collins, as a protective or ornamental plate around a keyhole.
Sources
- escudete Real Academia Española