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key Definition
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key
verb(key)identify as in botany or biology, for example
key
noun(key)(basketball) a space (including the foul line) in front of the basket at each end of a basketball court; usually painted a different color from the rest of the court
Synonyms: paint,
Examples:
He hit a jump shot from the top of the key.
key
noun(key)any of 24 major or minor diatonic scales that provide the tonal framework for a piece of music
Synonyms: tonality,
key
noun(key)United States lawyer and poet who wrote a poem after witnessing the British attack on Baltimore during the War of 1812; the poem was later set to music and entitled `The Star-Spangled Banner' (1779-1843)
Synonyms: francis scott key,
key
noun(key)mechanical device used to wind another device that is driven by a spring (as a clock)
Synonyms: winder,
key
noun(key)a winged often one-seed indehiscent fruit as of the ash or elm or maple
Synonyms: key fruit, samara,
key
noun(key)a generic term for any device whose possession entitles the holder to a means of access
Examples:
A safe-deposit box usually requires two keys to open it.
key
noun(key)a kilogram of a narcotic drug
Examples:
They were carrying two keys of heroin.
key
noun(key)a lever (as in a keyboard) that actuates a mechanism when depressed
key
noun(key)a list of answers to a test
Examples:
Some students had stolen the key to the final exam.
key
noun(key)a list of words or phrases that explain symbols or abbreviations
key
verb(key)harmonize with or adjust to
Examples:
Key one's actions to the voters' prevailing attitude.
key
noun(key)metal device shaped in such a way that when it is inserted into the appropriate lock the lock's mechanism can be rotated
key
noun(key)pitch of the voice
Examples:
He spoke in a low key.
key
verb(key)provide with a key
Examples:
We were keyed after the locks were changed in the building.
key
verb(key)regulate the musical pitch of
key
noun(key)something crucial for explaining
Examples:
The key to development is economic integration.
key
verb(key)vandalize a car by scratching the sides with a key
Examples:
His new Mercedes was keyed last night in the parking lot.