'passe-partout' definitions:

Definition of 'passe-partout'

(from WordNet)
noun
Key that secures entrance everywhere [syn: passkey, passe-partout, master key, master]
noun
A mounting for a picture using gummed tape

Definition of 'passe-partout'

From: GCIDE
  • passe-partout \passe`-par`tout"\, Passe partout \Passe" par`tout"\(p[aum]s` p[aum]r`t[=oo]"), n. [F., from passer to pass + partout everywhere.]
  • 1. That by which one can pass anywhere; a safe-conduct. [Obs.] --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. A master key; a latchkey. [WordNet sense 1] [1913 Webster]
  • 3. A light picture frame or mat of cardboard, wood, or the like, usually put between the picture and the glass, and sometimes serving for several pictures. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. A strip of adhesive paper or gummed tape used to mount a picture between a piece of glass and a backing. [WordNet sense 2] [WordNet 1.5]
  • 5. The method of mounting a picture between a piece of glass and a backing, using a passe-partout[4]. [PJC]