key - Definition & Meaning | VisualLang Dictionary

key

Plural

keys

a specially shaped piece of metal used for locking or unlocking a door, starting a car, etc.

She reached into her purse to retrieve the key to the front door.
He turned the key in the ignition to start the car's engine.
The spare key was hidden under a rock near the front porch.
They needed to have the key duplicated for the new employee.
She inserted the key into the lock and turned it to open the door.

one of many buttons that one presses or taps to operate a computer, telephone, or cell phone

Each key on a keyboard or keypad corresponds to a specific character or function, enabling users to input data and control the device efficiently.
Touchscreen devices utilize virtual keys displayed on the screen, allowing users to interact by tapping or swiping to input text, execute commands, or navigate menus.
Keypads on telephones and cell phones feature numeric keys for dialing phone numbers, along with additional keys for functions like call control, messaging, and navigation.
The keyboard on a computer typically consists of alphanumeric keys for typing letters and numbers, along with specialized keys like Enter, Shift, and Backspace.
After pressing the key, the screen displayed the desired result.

Synonyms:

button

a mechanical part that is pressed or activated to produce sound in musical instruments

A key is a component of a musical instrument, such as a piano or wind instrument, that is pressed or activated to produce a sound. On a piano, keys are the individual levers that are pressed to strike the strings inside, creating notes. On wind instruments, keys are levers or buttons that open and close holes to change the pitch of the notes produced. The design and function of keys vary depending on the instrument, but they are essential for playing melodies and harmonies.

The pianist pressed each key in perfect harmony to create a beautiful piece.
He mastered the difficult technique of playing with both hands on different keys.
The organist's fingers danced across the keys, filling the church with music.
She practiced playing the keys on her flute with precision and control.
The composer wrote the piece to feature the distinctive sounds of the lower keys on the piano.

a crucial factor in achieving or understanding something

Trust is the key to a successful relationship.
The key to solving the puzzle lies in understanding the pattern.
Leadership is the key to managing a successful team.
Patience is the key to mastering any skill.
His generosity was the key to helping the community thrive.

the highness or lowness of a person's voice

The singer's key was so high, it made the audience gasp in awe.
He adjusted his key to match the speaker's deep, resonant tone.
Her voice dropped to a lower key when she spoke about the serious matter.
The key of his voice made the speech sound both powerful and commanding.
She shifted her key to a higher pitch when singing the chorus of the song.

Synonyms:

pitch

a set of notes based on a particular note that form the tonal basis of a musical passage

In music, the term "key" refers to the group of notes and chords that form the basis of a musical piece. A key is defined by a specific starting note, called the tonic, and includes a set of related notes that are used to create melodies and harmonies. For example, the key of C-major starts on the note C and uses a set of notes that are based on the C-major scale. The key helps to establish the overall mood and tonal center of the music, guiding how the notes and chords interact to create a cohesive sound.

The composer chose the key of G major for the symphony, emphasizing its bright and uplifting qualities.
She modulated smoothly from the key of C major to A minor, creating a subtle shift in mood.
The song's melody was centered around the tonic note of the key, providing a sense of stability.
The guitarist improvised a solo in the key of E flat major, showcasing his versatility and skill.
The song is in the key of C major, which gives it a bright and uplifting sound.

Synonyms:

tonality

Antonyms:

atonality

a device used to wind a spring-driven mechanism, such as a clock

He used a small key to wind the antique clock on the mantel.
The old-fashioned toy required a winding key to make it move.
He carefully inserted the key to wind the pocket watch.
Without the winding key, the clock would eventually stop running.

Synonyms:

winder

the central stone at the top of an arch that holds the structure together

The architect praised the key for holding the entire structure of the arch in place.
Without the key, the arch would not have been able to bear the weight of the building.
The mason carefully placed the key at the top of the arch to complete the design.
The key was crucial in ensuring that the arch remained stable under pressure.

Synonyms:

keystone capstone headstone

a list of symbols that accompanies a table, map, etc. as a reference for further explanation

The map's key showed what each symbol represented, such as parks, rivers, and roads.
The key to the table helps you understand the different abbreviations used for data.
In the atlas, the key explains the colors used for different types of terrain.
The chart's key lists the meanings of the various shapes on the graph.
The map's key included symbols for hospitals, airports, and bus stations.

Synonyms:

guide legend explanation

a list of correct answers or solutions to questions, puzzles, or exercises

The workbook came with a key for all the exercises, allowing learners to verify their answers.
He used the key to solve the crossword puzzle more quickly.
The online course offers a key to help students check their understanding of the material.

Synonyms:

answer key

(basketball) the area near the basket, where players often position themselves for rebounds, screens, or post moves

The power forward grabbed the rebound in the key after the missed shot.
The point guard passed the ball to his teammate in the key, who made a quick move for the basket.
The player received an offensive foul for pushing in the key.
The center positioned himself in the key to block any incoming shots.
The defender stayed tight on his opponent as he moved into the key for a potential dunk.

Synonyms:

paint

a kilogram, especially of an illegal drug

After the raid, the officers recovered several keys of illicit drugs.
The police found a key of cocaine hidden in the warehouse.
They were found transporting a key of ecstasy across the border.
Authorities seized a key of heroin during the bust.

a type of seed with a wing-like structure that helps it to be carried by the wind, often found in certain tree species

The ground was covered with keys from the maple trees after the wind blew them off.
The children enjoyed collecting the keys from the sycamore trees during their walk.
As autumn approached, the ash trees shed their keys, scattering them across the lawn.
The key from the sycamore tree spun gracefully as it fell from the branch.
They noticed the keys of the maple trees swirling around in the breeze during their hike.

the general feeling or attitude that characterizes a situation, piece of writing, or event

The key of the novel was dark and brooding, reflecting the main character's inner turmoil.
The meeting was conducted in a formal key, emphasizing professionalism and efficiency.
The speech adopted an optimistic key, focusing on future possibilities and growth.
The artwork was painted in a muted key, evoking a sense of quiet reflection.
The key of the conversation shifted from casual to serious when the topic of finances came up.