key

English Dictionary -> Letter K -> key

Search Dictionary:

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; "the key to development is economic integration"
(n) pitch of the voice; "he spoke in a low key"
(n) any of 24 major or minor diatonic scales that provide the tonal framework for a piece of music
(n) a kilogram of a narcotic drug; "they were carrying two keys of heroin"
(n) a winged often one-seed indehiscent fruit as of the ash or elm or maple
(n) United States lawyer and poet who wrote a poem after witnessing the British attack on Baltimore during the War of 1812; the poem was later set to music and entitled `The Star-Spangled Banner'' (1779-1843)
(n) a coral reef off the southern coast of Florida
(n) (basketball) a space (including the foul line) in front of the basket at each end of a basketball court; usually painted a different color from the rest of the court; "he hit a jump shot from the top of the key"; "he dominates play in the paint"
(n) a list of answers to a test; "some students had stolen the key to the final exam"
(n) a list of words or phrases that explain symbols or abbreviations
(n) a generic term for any device whose possession entitles the holder to a means of access; "a safe-deposit box usually requires two keys to open it"
(n) mechanical device used to wind another device that is driven by a spring (as a clock)
(n) the central building block at the top of an arch or vault
(n) a lever that actuates a mechanism when depressed
(s) serving as an essential component; "a cardinal rule"; "the central cause of the problem"; "an example that was fundamental to the argument"; "computers are fundamental to modern industrial structure"
(s) effective; producing a desired effect; "the operative word"
(v) identify as in botany or biology, for example
(v) provide with a key; "We were keyed after the locks were changed in the building"
(v) vandalize a car by scratching the sides with a key; "His new Mercedes was keyed last night in the parking lot"
(v) regulate the musical pitch of
(v) harmonize with or adjust to; "key one''s actions to the voters'' prevailing attitude"

key Synonyms