# throw away the key

> English word · Verb

## Definitions
1. To never release someone (e.g., from prison).

## Etymology
An ellipsis of lock someone up and throw away the key.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/throw-away-the-key