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Keyboard: meaning, definitions and examples

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keyboard

 

[ˈkiːbɔːrd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

input device

A keyboard is an input device that uses a set of keys to send data to a computer or other devices. It is an essential tool for typing, gaming, and navigating through digital interfaces.

Synonyms

input keyboard, keypad, typing device.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
keyboard

Used in general context to refer to the primary input device for typing letters and characters on a computer.

  • I spilled coffee on my keyboard.
  • He bought a new keyboard for his office computer.
input keyboard

Typically used in technical or formal settings to specify that the keyboard is an input device.

  • The input keyboard allows users to interact with the software.
  • An input keyboard is essential for data entry tasks.

Examples of usage

  • I use the keyboard to type emails and documents.
  • Gamers rely on a keyboard to control characters in video games.
  • The keyboard shortcuts make it easier to switch between applications.
Context #2 | Noun

musical instrument

In music, a keyboard refers to a set of adjacent keys or levers that are played to produce sound. Keyboards can be found in pianos, organs, synthesizers, and other musical instruments.

Synonyms

keyboard instrument, musical keys, piano keyboard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
keyboard

When mentioning the device with keys used for typing in computing contexts, such as workplace or technical discussions.

  • The keyboard of my computer is not working properly
  • She bought a new mechanical keyboard for gaming
piano keyboard

Specifically refers to the set of keys on a piano or an electric piano, used in contexts where differentiation from other keyboard instruments is necessary.

  • She prefers the touch and sound of a traditional piano keyboard
  • The piano keyboard has 88 keys
musical keys

This expression can refer to the notes on any keyboard instrument, often used by musicians or in educational settings.

  • She effortlessly played the musical keys of the grand piano
  • The student learned the positions of the musical keys
keyboard instrument

Used when discussing a group of musical instruments that have keys, like pianos, organs, and synthesizers, in a more formal or academic context.

  • The museum has an extensive collection of keyboard instruments
  • He is an expert in restoring antique keyboard instruments

Examples of usage

  • She is a talented pianist who can play the keyboard effortlessly.
  • The keyboard player added a beautiful melody to the song.
  • Learning to play the keyboard requires practice and dedication.
Context #3 | Verb

to enter data

To keyboard means to type or enter data using a keyboard. It involves pressing keys to input information into a computer or device.

Synonyms

input, key in, type.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
keyboard

Refers to the hardware device used to input text and commands into a computer. Typically used when talking about the actual physical device.

  • The keyboard on my laptop stopped working
  • Can you pass me the keyboard?
type

Focuses on the action of pressing keys on a keyboard to produce text. Commonly used when talking about writing or composing text using a keyboard.

  • I need to type up my essay by tomorrow
  • She types very quickly
input

More general term for data entry or providing information to a system. It can refer to any form of data entry, not just using a keyboard.

  • The program requires you to input your name and address
  • User input is essential for the software to function correctly
key in

Refers specifically to the action of entering data using a keyboard. Often used in instructions or when specifying how something should be entered.

  • Please key in your password to continue
  • He keyed in the new data into the system

Examples of usage

  • Please keyboard your username and password to log in.
  • I need to keyboard this report before the deadline.
  • She keyboards quickly and accurately.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from 'key' and 'board', which refers to the keys mounted on a flat surface.
  • Originally, the term was used in the 19th century to describe piano keys and later adapted for typewriters.
  • In different languages, the word for it reflects its purpose; for example, in Spanish, it's 'teclado,' meaning 'keyed.'

Technology

  • The first electronic keyboard was created in the 1920s and was a part of the development of typewriters.
  • Modern keyboards include variations like ergonomic, gaming, and mechanical types, each designed for specific user preferences.
  • Wireless and Bluetooth keyboards have become popular, allowing for a clutter-free workspace.

Pop Culture

  • Keyboards have been featured prominently in movies and TV shows, often symbolizing creativity or technical expertise.
  • Several famous musicians and bands are known for their keyboard skills, influencing many genres, including pop, rock, and classical.
  • The keyboard is often a central instrument in music production today, used to compose and edit tracks in various styles.

Psychology

  • Typing on a keyboard can often be faster than writing by hand, impacting information retention and cognitive processing.
  • Research suggests that the way we interact with keyboard layouts affects our typing speed and accuracy.
  • Using keyboards can also contribute to repetitive strain injuries if not used with proper ergonomics.

Literature

  • Writers often utilize keyboards for their work, creating the interface between their thoughts and the page.
  • The keyboard’s layout is designed to facilitate the most common letter combinations, which has influenced the development of writing styles.
  • In the digital age, many authors have transitioned from typewriters to keyboards, changing how literature is produced and shared.

Translations

Translations of the word "keyboard" in other languages:

🇵🇹 teclado

🇮🇳 कीबोर्ड

🇩🇪 Tastatur

🇮🇩 papan ketik

🇺🇦 клавіатура

🇵🇱 klawiatura

🇯🇵 キーボード

🇫🇷 clavier

🇪🇸 teclado

🇹🇷 klavye

🇰🇷 키보드

🇸🇦 لوحة المفاتيح

🇨🇿 klávesnice

🇸🇰 klávesnica

🇨🇳 键盘

🇸🇮 tipkovnica

🇮🇸 lyklaborð

🇰🇿 пернетақта

🇬🇪 კლავიატურა

🇦🇿 klaviatura

🇲🇽 teclado

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,463 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.