Key

/kˈiː/

/ˈki/

Definition & Meaning of "key"

Key

NOUN

a specially shaped piece of metal used for locking or unlocking a door, starting a car, etc.

Example

She reached into her purse to retrieve the key to the front door.

He turned the key in the ignition to start the car's engine.

The spare key was hidden under a rock near the front porch.

one of many buttons that one presses or taps to operate a computer, telephone, or cell phone

button

Example

Each key on a keyboard or keypad corresponds to a specific character or function, enabling users to input data and control the device efficiently.

Touchscreen devices utilize virtual keys displayed on the screen, allowing users to interact by tapping or swiping to input text, execute commands, or navigate menus.

Keypads on telephones and cell phones feature numeric keys for dialing phone numbers, along with additional keys for functions like call control, messaging, and navigation.

a mechanical part that is pressed or activated to produce sound in musical instruments

What is a "key"?

A key is a component of a musical instrument, such as a piano or wind instrument, that is pressed or activated to produce a sound. On a piano, keys are the individual levers that are pressed to strike the strings inside, creating notes. On wind instruments, keys are levers or buttons that open and close holes to change the pitch of the notes produced. The design and function of keys vary depending on the instrument, but they are essential for playing melodies and harmonies.

Example

The pianist pressed each key in perfect harmony to create a beautiful piece.

He mastered the difficult technique of playing with both hands on different keys.

The organist 's fingers danced across the keys, filling the church with music.

a crucial factor in achieving or understanding something

Example

Trust is the key to a successful relationship.

The key to solving the puzzle lies in understanding the pattern.

Leadership is the key to managing a successful team.

the highness or lowness of a person's voice

pitch

Example

The singer 's key was so high, it made the audience gasp in awe.

He adjusted his key to match the speaker's deep, resonant tone.

Her voice dropped to a lower key when she spoke about the serious matter.

a set of notes based on a particular note that form the tonal basis of a musical passage

What is "key"?

In music, the term "key" refers to the group of notes and chords that form the basis of a musical piece. A key is defined by a specific starting note, called the tonic, and includes a set of related notes that are used to create melodies and harmonies. For example, the key of C-major starts on the note C and uses a set of notes that are based on the C-major scale. The key helps to establish the overall mood and tonal center of the music, guiding how the notes and chords interact to create a cohesive sound.

Example

The composer chose the key of G major for the symphony, emphasizing its bright and uplifting qualities.

She modulated smoothly from the key of C major to A minor, creating a subtle shift in mood.

The song 's melody was centered around the tonic note of the key, providing a sense of stability.

a device used to wind a spring-driven mechanism, such as a clock

winder

Example

He used a small key to wind the antique clock on the mantel.

The old-fashioned toy required a winding key to make it move.

He carefully inserted the key to wind the pocket watch.

the central stone at the top of an arch that holds the structure together

keystone

Example

The architect praised the key for holding the entire structure of the arch in place.

Without the key, the arch would not have been able to bear the weight of the building.

The mason carefully placed the key at the top of the arch to complete the design.

a generic term for any device whose possession entitles the holder to a means of access

a list of symbols that accompanies a table, map, etc. as a reference for further explanation

guide

legend

Example

The map 's key showed what each symbol represented, such as parks, rivers, and roads.

The key to the table helps you understand the different abbreviations used for data.

In the atlas, the key explains the colors used for different types of terrain.

a list of correct answers or solutions to questions, puzzles, or exercises

answer key

Example

The workbook came with a key for all the exercises, allowing learners to verify their answers.

He used the key to solve the crossword puzzle more quickly.

The online course offers a key to help students check their understanding of the material.

(basketball) the area near the basket, where players often position themselves for rebounds, screens, or post moves

paint

Example

The power forward grabbed the rebound in the key after the missed shot.

The point guard passed the ball to his teammate in the key, who made a quick move for the basket.

The player received an offensive foul for pushing in the key.

a kilogram, especially of an illegal drug

Informal

Example

After the raid, the officers recovered several keys of illicit drugs.

The police found a key of cocaine hidden in the warehouse.

They were found transporting a key of ecstasy across the border.

a type of seed with a wing-like structure that helps it to be carried by the wind, often found in certain tree species

Example

The ground was covered with keys from the maple trees after the wind blew them off.

The children enjoyed collecting the keys from the sycamore trees during their walk.

As autumn approached, the ash trees shed their keys, scattering them across the lawn.

the general feeling or attitude that characterizes a situation, piece of writing, or event

mood

tone

Example

The key of the novel was dark and brooding, reflecting the main character's inner turmoil.

The meeting was conducted in a formal key, emphasizing professionalism and efficiency.

The speech adopted an optimistic key, focusing on future possibilities and growth.

the final piece or board used to complete a floor or surface installation, ensuring the structure is secure

Example

The key was inserted to complete the floor installation.

He carefully placed the key to finish the wooden surface.

After laying the key, the floor was completely finished.

key

ADJECTIVE

essential and highly important to a particular process, situation, or outcome

big

cardinal

critical

crucial

essential

Example

The key factor in his success was his persistence and determination.

Time management skills are key to achieving productivity and success.

Flexibility is a key attribute for adapting to changing circumstances.

to key

VERB

to identify or classify an organism, species, or object using a system of questions or characteristics, typically in fields like botany, biology, or taxonomy

Example

The botanist keyed the plant based on its leaf shape and flower color.

After examining the features, she was able to key the insect to its correct family.

Using a field guide, the students keyed the local tree species by their bark texture.

to tailor an advertisement to a specific audience

Example

The marketing team decided to key the advertisement for young professionals in urban areas.

They key their ads to different age groups to improve engagement and response rates.

The company is keying their promotional materials to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

to regulate or adjust the musical pitch of an instrument or voice

pitch

tune

tune up

Example

The musician keyed the piano to ensure it was in tune.

The conductor asked the orchestra to key their instruments before the performance.

He carefully keyed the violin to match the other strings.

to vandalize or scratch a car, typically with a key, as an act of damage or protest

Example

Someone keyed my car while I was inside the store.

The thief did n't steal anything but keyed several cars in the parking lot.

He was caught on camera keying a parked vehicle in the neighborhood.

to give access or control by providing a key or code

Example

The hotel receptionist keyed the guest into the system to access their room.

She keyed the door to allow entry into the new office.

The technician keyed in the new code to activate the security system.

to enter information or data into a computer or electronic device using a keyboard

Example

He quickly keyed the details into the system.

The assistant keyed in the customer's information for the order.

He was able to key the information without making any errors.

to provide an arch with its central supporting stone

Example

The mason keyed the arch to ensure it would hold steady.

They carefully keyed the stone to finish the archway.

The architect instructed the crew to key the structure before continuing.

to fasten or secure something in place

fix

secure

Example

The technician keyed the gears into place to ensure the machine functioned properly.

They keyed the boards into the frame to hold the structure together.

The engineer keyed the components to prevent any movement during the test.

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Definition & Meaning of "key"

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