keypunch

verb

keypunched; keypunching; keypunches

transitive verb

: to enter (data) on punch cards with a keypunch
keypuncher noun

Word History

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of keypunch was in 1908

Rhymes for keypunch

See All Rhymes for keypunch

Browse Nearby Words

key plug
keypunch
key ring
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Keypunch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/keypunch. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.

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Kids Definition

keypunch

noun
key·​punch
-ˌpənch
: a machine with a keyboard for punching cards to be used in data processing
keypunch verb
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