key
noun [ C ]
uk/kiː/ us IT
any of the set of moving parts that you press with your fingers on a computer, etc. to produce letters, numbers, or symbols:
Press any key to continue.
GRAPHS & CHARTS
a list of the symbols used in a map, chart, or book with explanations of what they mean:
For an explanation of these symbols, see key below.
the key (to sth)
the best or only way to achieve something:
The key is to prioritize your work, and to keep to your schedule.
Hard work is the key to success.
A focus on training is often the key to unlocking potential.
See also
Alt key
arrow key
control key
escape
hot key
scroll key
shift key
key
adjective
uk/kiː/ usvery important and having a lot of influence on people or things:
The control of inflation is a key component of the government's economic policy.
a key factor
key to sth Education is key to the country's success.
Getting the budget right is absolutely key.
key
verb [ I or T ]
uk/kiː/ us IT
to put information into a computer or a machine using a keyboard, or to spend time doing this work:
All the data will then need to be keyed.
She spends most of her time keying.
Compare
keyboard verb
Phrasal verbs
key sth in
key sth to sth