key word

noun

: a word that is a key: such as

a

usually keyword

ˈkē-ˌwərd 

: a significant word from a title or document used especially as an index to content

b

: a word exemplifying the meaning or value of a letter or symbol

Examples of key word in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Check Your Make and Model While pre-rinsing isn’t necessary for most dishwashers, Cohoon points out that the key word here is most. — Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 25 July 2026

Dead maybe was the key word as sleep deprivation can be fatal. — Marisa Meltzer, Vanity Fair, 17 July 2026

Continue reading … JONATHAN TURLEY — James Talarico cites 'well regulated' to defend gun control but leaves out a key word. — FOXNews.com, 13 July 2026

These key words and the beliefs that underlay them were commonly used and known by colonists in America. — Dr. Matthew Warshauer, Hartford Courant, 26 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1762, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for key word

• absurd
• averred
• bluebird
• byword
• catbird
• catchword
• concurred
• conferred
• cowbird
• cowherd
• crossword
• deferred

Kids Definition

keyword

noun

key·​word

-ˌwərd

: a word of interest or significance