key
🇺🇸
/kiː/
🇬🇧
/kiː/
noun
A1
A small metal tool used to open locks or start engines.
I always keep a key to my house in my bag.
B1
The most important thing needed to understand or achieve something.
Practice is the key to learning a new language.
B1
A button on a keyboard or phone that you press to type.
Press the enter key to send your message.
B1
One of the parts you press to play a piano or similar instrument.
She gently touched the piano key to start the song.
R
A group of musical notes that sound good together.
The song changes key in the middle to make it more exciting.
R
A list of correct answers for questions or problems.
Use the answer key at the back of the book to check your work.
R
A guide that explains the symbols on a map or diagram.
Look at the map key to understand what the symbols mean.
adjective
R
Very important; necessary for success.
Being on time is key to making a good impression.
verb
B1
To type information into a computer using a keyboard.
Please key your name into the computer to sign in.
R
To scratch a car's surface with a key to damage it.
Someone used a key to scratch the side of my car.
translation
A small metal tool used to open locks or start engines.; The most important thing needed to understand or achieve something.; A button on a keyboard or phone that you press to type.; One of the parts you press to play a piano or similar instrument.; A group of musical notes that sound good together.; A list of correct answers for questions or problems.; A guide that explains the symbols on a map or diagram.
Very important; necessary for success.
To type information into a computer using a keyboard.; To scratch a car's surface with a key to damage it.
Word Forms
3rd Present
keys
Past
keyed
Perfect
keyed
Progressive
keying
Plural
keys