Main Entry: ²key

Function: verb

Date: 14th century

transitive verb

1 : to lock with or as if with a key : fasten: as a : to secure (as a pulley on a shaft) by a key b : to finish off (an arch) by inserting a keystone
2 : to regulate the musical pitch of
3 : to bring into harmony or conformity : make appropriate : attune <remarks keyed to a situation>
4 : to identify (a biological specimen) by a key
5 : to provide with identifying or explanatory cross-references <instructions keyed to accompanying drawings — John Gartner>
6 : to make nervous, tense, or excited —usually used with up <was keyed up over her impending operation>
7 : keyboard —often used with in
8 : to be essential to : play the most important part in <defense keyed the victory>intransitive verb 1 : to use a key
2 : to observe the position or movement of an opposing player in football in order to anticipate the play —usually used with on
3 : keyboard