key

Definition

• n. metal device shaped in such a way that when it is inserted into the appropriate lock the lock's mechanism can be rotated
• n. something crucial for explaining
• n. pitch of the voice
• n. any of 24 major or minor diatonic scales that provide the tonal framework for a piece of music

Word forms

Past participle

keyed

Present participle

keying

Past tense

keyed

Third person singular

keys

Example sentences

1. n.

   I lost my house key yesterday and had to call a locksmith.

2. vt.

   Please key the piano before the concert starts.

3. vi.

   She had to key in the password to access her account.

4. n.

   Press the key labeled 'Enter' to submit your answer.