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Is it used to deal with a deadlock? (8,3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

skeleton key

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'deadlock?' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how they can define each other.

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for skeleton key that I've seen before include "That which can open numerous doors" , "help needed identifying bones perhaps" , "Versatile opener" , "Master admitting" , "Opener of many locks" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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