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 of3: to bring into harmony or conformity : make appropriate : attune <remarks keyed to a situation>4: to identify (a biological specimen) by a key5: 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 in8: to be essential to : play the most important part in <defense keyed the victory>intransitive verb1: to use a key2: to observe the position or movement of an opposing player in football in order to anticipate the play —usually used with on3: keyboard