Key

biographical name

ˈkē 

Francis Scott 1779–1843 American lawyer and author of "The Star-Spangled Banner"

Kids Definition

key

1 of 4 noun

ˈkē 

plural keys

1

a

: a small device that is used to open a lock or start an automobile

b

: a device having the form or function of a key

a key for winding a clock

2

: a means of gaining or preventing entrance, possession, or control

3

a

: something that provides an explanation, solution, or means of identifying

the key to a riddle

b

: a series of phrases or statements that describe characteristics by which plants or animals of a particular group differ and are used to aid in identification

c

: a map legend

4

: one of the levers with a flat surface that is pressed by a finger in operating a machine or playing an instrument

5

: a system of seven musical tones arranged in relation to a keynote from which the system is named

the key of C

6

: a characteristic style or tone

7

: a small switch for opening or closing an electric circuit

key

2 of 4 verb

keyed; keying

1

: to adjust the musical pitch of

2

: to bring into harmony

3

: to make nervous, tense, or excited

—usually used with up

all keyed up about the test

4

: to record by operating the keys of a machine

key each price into the cash register

key

3 of 4 adjective

: of great importance

the key people in the organization

the key question is "Can we afford it?"

use key words in an outline

key

4 of 4 noun

: a low island or reef

the Florida Keys

Etymology

Old English cǣg "key"

from Spanish cayo "a low island or reef"

Legal Definition

key

adjective

: of vital importance (as in a business organization) especially so as to be specially insured to the benefit of an employer

key man

key employee insurance