key to
verb
keyed to; keying to; keys to
chiefly US
1
: to make (something) suitable for (a particular use or type of person)
I try to key my lectures to my audience.
—often used as (be) keyed toThe educational program is keyed to the needs of working women.
2
: to change (something) in a way that is closely related to (something else)
—usually used as (be) keyed to
The amount of money they receive is keyed to the rate of inflation.
Examples of key to in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The New York Knicks players and coaches are set to receive keys to the city on Thursday from Mayor Mamdani after breaking a 53-year drought to win the 2026 NBA championship.
—
Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 15 June 2026
Preparations are now underway for a victory parade on Thursday, along with a ceremony honoring the team with keys to the city.
—Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 15 June 2026
Blashill was handed the keys to a Hawks team that didn’t have much direction, identity or confidence to perform.
—Kalen Lumpkins, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2026
The psychologist’s adult nephew has been recruited by an environmentalist who believes that the psychologist’s case files hold the key to saving the forest.
—The New Yorker, New Yorker, 15 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for key to
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Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 15 June 2026
Preparations are now underway for a victory parade on Thursday, along with a ceremony honoring the team with keys to the city.
—Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 15 June 2026
Blashill was handed the keys to a Hawks team that didn’t have much direction, identity or confidence to perform.
—Kalen Lumpkins, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2026
The psychologist’s adult nephew has been recruited by an environmentalist who believes that the psychologist’s case files hold the key to saving the forest.
—The New Yorker, New Yorker, 15 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for key to
Cite this Entry
“Key to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/key%20to. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
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