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Key: meaning, definitions and examples

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key

 

[ kiː ]

Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

security

A small piece of shaped metal with incisions cut to fit the wards of a particular lock, and that is inserted into the lock and turned to open or close it.

Synonyms

combination, master key, passkey.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
key

In a metaphorical sense, used to describe something that is crucial or essential.

  • Education is the key to success.
  • Honesty is the key to building trust.
passkey

Describes a key, card, or code used to gain access to a restricted area, often in hotels or secure facilities.

  • You need a passkey to enter the service elevator.
  • The passkey for the hotel room was not working.
master key

Refers to a special key that can open multiple locks within a system, often used in buildings or organizations.

  • The janitor has the master key to all the rooms in the building.
  • He used the master key to access the maintenance area.
combination

Typically refers to a sequence of numbers or letters used to unlock locks or gain access to something, often used with 'combination lock'.

  • I forgot the combination to my locker.
  • Enter the combination to unlock the safe.

Examples of usage

  • Locksmiths use various types of keys to open different locks.
  • She fumbled in her bag for the house key.
  • He turned the key in the lock and opened the door.
Context #2 | Noun

information

A word or phrase that provides a means of access to a computer system or other information.

Synonyms

access code, passcode, password.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
key

A crucial or important factor in a situation.

  • Confidence is the key to success
  • The key to solving the puzzle was hidden in the text
password

A secret word or phrase used to verify identity or grant access to a digital system, website, or application.

  • Remember to change your password regularly
  • He forgot his email password and had to reset it
access code

A series of numbers or characters used to gain entry to a secure area, often electronically controlled.

  • You need an access code to enter the building after hours
  • The gate requires an access code
passcode

A secret number or series of characters used to gain access to a digital system or device.

  • You need a passcode to unlock your phone
  • Set a strong passcode for better security

Examples of usage

  • You need to enter your username and password to access the account.
  • Make sure to keep your keys secure to protect your sensitive information.
Context #3 | Noun

music

A button pressed to select a function on an electronic device.

Synonyms

button, control, switch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
key

Physical object used to open locks or a symbol on a keyboard.

  • I always keep my keys in my bag.
  • Press the enter key to submit the form.
button

A small device pressed to operate electrical equipment or a piece sewn onto clothing.

  • Press the power button to turn on the computer.
  • She sewed a new button onto her shirt.
switch

Device for turning a device on or off, especially in electrical circuits.

  • Flip the light switch to turn on the lights.
  • The main power switch is located on the back of the machine.
control

Mechanism to regulate the operation of a machine or the authority to direct.

  • Use the volume control to adjust the sound.
  • The pilot has control over the aircraft.

Examples of usage

  • She pressed the key to change the instrument sound on the keyboard.
  • The musician used different keys to create a variety of tones.

Translations

Translations of the word "key" in other languages:

🇵🇹 chave

🇮🇳 चाबी

🇩🇪 Schlüssel

🇮🇩 kunci

🇺🇦 ключ

🇵🇱 klucz

🇯🇵 鍵 (かぎ)

🇫🇷 clé

🇪🇸 llave

🇹🇷 anahtar

🇰🇷 열쇠

🇸🇦 مفتاح

🇨🇿 klíč

🇸🇰 kľúč

🇨🇳 钥匙 (yàoshi)

🇸🇮 ključ

🇮🇸 lykill

🇰🇿 кілт

🇬🇪 გასაღები

🇦🇿 açar

🇲🇽 llave

Etymology

The word 'key' originated from the Old English word 'cǣg', which is of Germanic origin. The meaning of 'key' has evolved over time to encompass a wide range of contexts, from physical objects used to unlock doors to digital access credentials. The concept of a key has long been associated with security and access, playing a crucial role in everyday life. In music, a key refers to a group of notes based on a particular scale, influencing the overall tonality of a piece. The versatility and importance of keys make them an integral part of various aspects of human activity.

See also: hotkeys, keyboard, keyhole, keying, keylogger, keynote, keypad, keys, keystone, keyway, keyword.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,061, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.