key-controlled tool
nounUK /kiː kənˈtrəʊld tuːl/
US /kiː kənˈtroʊld tuːl/
A tool that only works when you use a special key.
The teacher used a key-controlled tool to open the supply cabinet.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A device that starts or stops with a key, like a car or machine.
The key-controlled tool started the engine only after the key was turned.
3. A piece of equipment that needs a key to change its settings.
The key-controlled tool kept the settings safe from children.
4. A tool whose access is limited to people with the right key.
Only the manager had the key-controlled tool for the cash box.