- 1a specially shaped piece of metal used for locking a door, starting a car, etc. to insert/turn the key in the lock the car keys a bunch of keys the spare key to the front door We'll have a duplicate key cut (= made). There's a special key for winding up this clock. most important thing
- 2[usually singular] a thing that makes you able to understand or achieve something synonym secret key (to something) The key to success is preparation. key (to doing something) The driver of the car probably holds the key to solving the crime. The key is, how long can the federal government control the inflation rate?
- 3any of the buttons that you press to operate a computer or typewriter Press the return key to enter the information. on musical instrument
- 4any of the wooden or metal parts that you press to play a piano and some other musical instruments music
- 5a set of related notes, based on a particular note. Pieces of music are usually written mainly using a particular key a sonata in the key of E flat major This piece changes key many times. compare scale see scale answers
- 6a set of answers to exercises or problems Check your answers in the key at the back of the book. on map
- 7an explanation of the symbols used on a map or plan see low-key Idioms
tool for lock
locked up safely somewhere; in prison We keep our valuables under lock and key. I will not rest until the murderer is under lock and key.
Check pronunciation: key