Word: Key

Pronunciation

/kiː/

Definitions

• Noun:

  • A small piece of metal or another hard material with grooves cut to fit the wards of a lock, used to open or close it. Example: “She unlocked the door with her house key.”
  • The fundamental musical tone that establishes the tonality of a piece of music. Example: “C major is the key of this symphony.”
  • A thing that holds the solution or provides access to something; a means of solving a problem or understanding something. Example: “Education is the key to success.”
  • In computing, a unique code or sequence of characters used to encrypt or decrypt data. Example: “The encryption key ensures the security of online transactions.”

• Verb:

  • To unlock or open (a lock) with a key. Example: “He keyed the car door and got inside.”
  • To operate or control by means of a keyboard or similar device. Example: “She keyed in the password on her laptop.”
  • To identify or categorize according to a key. Example: “These specimens were keyed according to their species.”

Phrases

• “Key to success”: A factor that is essential for achieving a desired outcome.
• “Turnkey solution”: A complete product or service that can be implemented immediately without much customization.
• “Under lock and key”: Stored securely, inaccessible to unauthorized people.
• “In the key of ___”: Describing the main tonality of a musical composition.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “I couldn’t find my office key anywhere.”
• Verb: “He keyed the ignition to start the car.”
• As a descriptor: “This chart will help you understand how each color represents a different key demographic.”

Synonyms

• Noun: Locksmith’s tool, cipher, passcode, password, solution, crux.
• Verb: Unlock, open, operate, enter, classify, tune.

Note: The usage of ‘key’ as a verb doesn’t have direct synonyms in every context. For instance, when referring to unlocking something, ‘unlock’ would be a synonym; however, when referring to typing on a keyboard, ‘type’ or ‘input’ would be more suitable synonyms.