n.
Pronunciation: ' lach
Function: intransitive verb
Etymology: Middle English lachen, from Old English læccan; perhaps akin to Greek lambanein to take, seize
Date: 13th century
1 : to lay hold with or as if with the hands or arms ― used with on or onto
2 : to associate oneself intimately and often artfully ― used with on or onto < latch ed onto a rich widow>