function key

Definition of function key

: any of a set of keys on a computer keyboard that have or can be programmed to have special functions

Examples of function key in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web But others, like keyboard backlight brightness, have to be changed deep within the Settings app, whereas they could be changed with one or two taps on the MacBook Pro's Touch Bar or the MacBook Air's function keys. — Samuel Axon, Ars Technica, "New iPad keyboard shortcuts aim to make up for lack of function keys," 5 June 2020 Unfortunately for them, Apple no longer sells any MacBook Pros with physical function keys. — Samuel Axon, Ars Technica, "2020 13-inch MacBook Pro review: The standard macOS workhorse," 12 May 2020 To type a number or use the arrows, hold down a function key, which unlocks the alternate characters. — Boone Ashworth, Wired, "All the Cool Kids Are Using Tiny Clackety Keyboards," 21 Jan. 2020 There's a top row of numbers, standard function keys along the bottom, a full-size space bar, and adjustable feet for the right amount of tilt. — Boone Ashworth, Wired, "All the Cool Kids Are Using Tiny Clackety Keyboards," 21 Jan. 2020 The prep work unfolds in rooms that are accessible by haphazardly functioning key cards. — BostonGlobe.com, "WASHINGTON — Far from any television camera and a half world away from Ukraine, a few dozen Democratic staff aides, lawyers, and House members are grinding away this weekend in a loose clump of Capitol Hill offices, the beating heart of the impeachment operation against President Donald Trump.," 7 Dec. 2019 The prep work unfolds in rooms that are accessible by haphazardly functioning key cards, and are punctuated by late-night vacuum screams. — Mark Leibovich, New York Times, "Behind the Scenes of Impeachment: Crammed Offices, Late Nights, Cold Pizza," 7 Dec. 2019 The keyboard also includes macro keys, user-programmable shortcuts, above the function keys. — Cameron Faulkner, The Verge, "Acer Predator Triton 900 review: weird flex," 12 July 2019 Users can raise and lower the volume using the function keys. — Gieson Cacho, The Mercury News, "Review: Logitech Master Series offers high-tech update to classic combo," 19 Sep. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'function key.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Function key.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/function%20key. Accessed 22 Jan. 2021.

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