key to

phrasal 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

Experts say a key to peacekeeping missions working is the logistics and the administration and the support that is behind the forces that are actually on the ground. —Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 26 Sep. 2025

Wild Fable Mid-Rise Knit Sweatpants Reliable loungewear that can also be dressed up with the right tops is the key to staying comfortable while looking chic. —Ali Faccenda, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025

Staying hydrated throughout the day is also key to healthy digestion. —Abby Norman, Verywell Health, 26 Sep. 2025

Best Practices For Cleaning Glassware Cleaning glassware properly is key to getting the best and longest use out of it. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 26 Sep. 2025

Rhymes for key to

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