function key

noun

: any of a set of keys on a computer keyboard that have or can be programmed to have special functions

Examples of function key in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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More routinely useful, the MX Keys also has a row of pre-set function keys for such basic processes as raising and lowering sound and the brightness of keyboard and screen lighting, and calling up search or the calculator. David Bloom, Forbes, 24 Sep. 2024 Other features include a white backlight, USB-C charging, swappable keycaps for Mac and Windows and programmable function keys. Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 6 Sep. 2024 The Magic Keyboard, meanwhile, gets a nicer-feeling, more metallic-looking chassis, plus the addition of a row of 14 function keys for adjusting brightness, media playback, and so on. Samuel Axon, Ars Technica, 13 May 2024 The $349 Apple Magic Keyboard for the 13-inch iPad Pro and the $229.99 Book Cover Keyboard for the Tab S9+ both have a row of function keys and trackpads. PCMAG, 10 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for function key 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of function key was circa 1964

Dictionary Entries Near function key

Cite this Entry

“Function key.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/function%20key. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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