key

key

noun

Definition of KEY

1

an explanatory list of the symbols on a map or chart <in order to know what those dotted lines represent, you'll need to look at the key>

Synonyms key

Related Words scale; caption; guide, table

2

something that allows someone to achieve a desired goal <a good education is the key to success>

Synonyms gateway, key, open sesame, secret, ticket

Related Words password; accomplishment, achievement, attainment, coup, success, triumph; approach, manner, means, method, style, system, technique, way; blueprint, design, ground plan, plan, program, scheme, strategy

3

the means or right of entering or participating in <he had found the key to her heart>

Synonyms access, accession, admission, admittance, door, doorway, entrée (or entree), entry, gateway, ingress, key, passport, ticket

Related Words approval, authorization, certification, permission, qualification; open door, welcome mat

Near Antonyms discharge, dismissal, ejection, expulsion, ouster, rejection, removal