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Keyboard: meaning, definitions and examples

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keyboard

 

[ ˈkiːbɔːrd ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
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.

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

Etymology

The word 'keyboard' originated from the combination of 'key,' referring to the individual buttons on the device, and 'board,' which suggests a flat surface. Keyboards have evolved over the years from mechanical typewriters to modern electronic keyboards used for various purposes.

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

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.