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 to

The 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

In an interview with Spanish sports newspaper AS in June, De la Torre spoke glowingly about his colleague and friend and the key to their success on the south coast. — Andy Jones, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026

Eventually getting back this version of him, however, was key to the Dodgers’ postseason aspirations. — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 12 Aug. 2026

Alosco said there are many similarities between Alzheimer’s and CTE because both are degenerative brain diseases, but there are also some key differences, and mapping out those discrepancies is key to figuring out a way to diagnose CTE properly. — David Brandt, Chicago Tribune, 12 Aug. 2026

All could be keys to the Dolphins’ depth although it should be noted Tolbert is currently listed as a starter. — David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 12 Aug. 2026

Rhymes for key to

• accrue
• ado
• ainu
• aircrew
• airscrew
• anew
• askew
• baboo
• babu
• bamboo
• beaucoup
• bijou