keypad

noun

key·​pad ˈkē-ˌpad 

1

: a small set of keys that is part of a larger keyboard or another device (such as a telephone or calculator)

The keyboards of costly computers … usually have a separate numeric keypad in addition to the usual numerals in the top row of any keyboard.

—Consumer Reports

This lets you operate your centrally located audio/video gear from anywhere in the house, either by a handheld remote control or a keypad built into the wall.

—Video Review

2

: a small, usually numerical keyboard

Deactivate the alarm by punching a code into the keypad mounted inside the house.

Using a handheld keypad, the salesperson presses a three-digit code to find specific tracks. For example, "147" might be a segment with maintenance tips for the Cadillac diesel engine.

—Jane Wollman

Examples of keypad in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The same layout on an Inspiron 14 qualifies as a fine keyboard with flat and square keys and simple white backlighting, but Dell doesn't use the extra space here to offset the arrow keys, add a numeric keypad, or include any extras. —PCMAG, 27 Sep. 2024

Finally, the Scribe Nano is an ultra-compact design without a numeric keypad. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 6 Sep. 2024

To avoid the latter, the bureau recommends covering the keypad as much as possible. —Alison Cross, Hartford Courant, 8 Aug. 2024

Photograph: Christopher Null The 16-inch display provides ample room for a spacious keyboard, though there's no numeric keypad, leaving lots of dead space on either side. —Christopher Null, WIRED, 5 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

keypad

noun

key·​pad ˈkē-ˌpad 

: a small keyboard (as on a pocket calculator)