passport
UK: ˈpɑːspɔːt | US: ˈpæspɔːrt
n. an official document issued by a government, certifying the holder's identity and citizenship and entitling them to travel under its protection to and from foreign countries
n. (figurative) something that enables someone to achieve or access something
The word "passport" originated in the late 15th century from the French passeport, combining passer (to pass) and port (gate, harbor). Initially, it referred to authorization to pass through a port or enter a city. Over time, it evolved into the modern travel document, metaphorically "carrying" the holder across borders. The morphemes reflect the literal function: pass (permission to move) + port (gateway for entry).
She renewed her passport before the international trip.
A strong educational background can be a passport to better job opportunities.
The officer stamped my passport at the border checkpoint.
He forgot his passport at home and couldn’t board the flight.
In medieval times, a passport was often a letter from a monarch granting safe passage.