key1 ( P ) Pronunciation Key (k)
n. pl. keys
A notched and grooved, usually metal implement that is turned to open or close a lock.
A similar device used for opening or winding: the key of a clock; a can that has a key attached.
A means of access, control, or possession.
A vital, crucial element.
A set of answers to a test.
A table, gloss, or cipher for decoding or interpreting.
A device, such as a wedge or pin, inserted to lock together mechanical or structural parts.
Architecture. The keystone in the crown of an arch.
A button or lever that is depressed to operate a machine.
A button that is depressed to cause a corresponding character or function to be typed or executed by a typewriter or to be accepted as input by a computer.
Music. A button or lever that is depressed with the finger to produce or modulate the sound of an instrument, such as a clarinet or piano.
Music.
A tonal system consisting of seven tones in fixed relationship to a tonic, having a characteristic key signature and being the structural foundation of the bulk of Western music; tonality.
The principal tonality of a work: an etude in the key of E.
The pitch of a voice or other sound.
A characteristic tone or level of intensity, as of a speech or sales campaign. Often used in combination: high-key; low-key.
Botany. A samara.
An outline of the distinguishing characteristics of a group of organisms, used as a guide in taxonomic identification.
Basketball. An area at each end of the court between the base line and the foul line and including the jump-ball circle at the foul line: a jump shot from the top of the key.