Noun
key to the city (plural keys to the city)
An ornamental key sometimes given as a symbol of a freedom of the city.
Mark my words. After this show in Detroit, They will give us the key to the city. Tomo Milicevic
In 1980, Detroit Mayor Coleman Young allowed Rev. Yasso to present the key to the city of Detroit to Saddam Hussein. Source: Internet
New York City mayor Mike Bloomberg announced 28 March 2007 "Teletubbies Day" and gave the key to the city to the Teletubbies. Source: Internet
WADSWORTH — More than 160 people rose to their feet and applauded as centenarian Stan Wolczyk made his way to the stage to accept the key to the city during the 2018 Rosie Awards banquet. Source: Internet
Finally, there’s a key to the city that actually unlocks something. Source: Internet
Milland, (1974) p.228 When he appeared in Cardiff, the largest city in Wales, he was given the key to the city. Source: Internet