as in key
something that allows someone to achieve a desired goal it turned out that a simple "please" was the open sesame for charming the hotel manager into giving us a room with a better view

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for open sesame
Noun
  • Just as a right-handed glove cannot fit a left hand or how a key precisely fits a lock, interactions between molecules often depend on chirality, and living systems need consistent patterns of chirality to function properly.
    Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 17 Oct. 2025
  • The front zipper pocket gives you easy access to your phone, iPad Mini or your book, while the larger pocket easily holds a water bottle, wallet, keys and other personal belongings.
    Christopher Murray may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 17 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The interior zippered pocket is also perfect for keeping passports, tickets, or snacks easily accessible.
    Alexis Benveniste, Travel + Leisure, 18 Oct. 2025
  • According to a criminal complaint obtained by WKBN, Thomas and a woman entered the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium without tickets through a temporary exit amid the zoo's remodeling.
    Nicholas Rice, PEOPLE, 18 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • And there’s also still a spinoff brewing, set at a different gateway to Demogorgon Town.
    Bethy Squires, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2025
  • Workers at Europe’s two biggest seaports have temporarily suspended their labor action as more vessels pile up near the oft-congested gateways.
    Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 15 Oct. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Open sesame.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/open%20sesame. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

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