key 1 of 3

Definition of keynext

key

2 of 3

noun

1
as in table
an explanatory list of the symbols on a map or chart in order to know what those dotted lines represent, you'll need to look at the key

Synonyms & Similar Words

2
3

key

3 of 3

verb

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of key
Adjective
Cooper quickly became a key part of the Hurricanes’ offensive line, taking over as the starting right guard as a freshman and holding down that spot for the next three seasons. Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 22 June 2026 The category posted strong single-digit sales gains overall, with key franchises posting double-digit increases. Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 22 June 2026
Noun
Doctors say the key is recognizing symptoms early and taking action before heat exhaustion turns into a more serious medical emergency. Hannah McIlree, CBS News, 29 June 2026 Unlike the Razr Ultra and Edge, the Razr+ doesn’t have an AI key that launches Moto AI. Kimberly Gedeon, PC Magazine, 29 June 2026
Verb
Wade Meckler and Jo Adell keyed a five-run second inning with two-run doubles, and Walbert Ureña navigated heavy traffic through five shutout innings to lead the Los Angeles Angels to a 10-1 victory over the Houston Astros on Tuesday night. ABC News, 10 June 2026 On the flip side, opposing secondaries keyed in on Sutton in 2025, often putting a natural cap on Denver’s offense. Luca Evans, Denver Post, 7 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for key
Recent Examples of Synonyms for key
Adjective
  • Because Swift has no docking ports or grappling fixtures to grab onto, Katalyst built its 880-pound, 5-foot tall LINK spacecraft with a custom robotic capture mechanism that will attach to a feature on the satellite’s main structure.
    Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 28 June 2026
  • One of the festival’s main attractions is the FIFA store, an 8,000-square-foot indoor facility on the east side of the grounds.
    Christian Marshall, Kansas City Star, 28 June 2026
Adjective
  • Both Wine Institute and the California Association of Winegrape Growers applauded the recent letters from Congress to Quebec, saying getting American wine back into Canada is crucial to aiding their struggling industry.
    Lizzie Kane, Sacbee.com, 3 July 2026
  • Fairview a ‘crucial’ crossing The two Fairview bridges were built 44 years apart.
    Mark Dee July 3, Idaho Statesman, 3 July 2026
Noun
  • Be sure to cover your head and neck with your arms, and crawl under a sturdy table if possible.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 4 July 2026
  • Guests also visited a memory table filled with photos of Love and her father together, along with some of his favorite things, including a football, weights and his scriptures.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 4 July 2026
Noun
  • Aysnc, the organization responsible for opening the gateway to the Backrooms, was seen at the end of the movie when Mary escapes and ends up speaking with Async researcher Phil (Mark Duplass) in a private room.
    Arushi Jacob, Variety, 3 July 2026
  • For ALL Accor, that means using hotels not just as places to sleep, but as gateways into culture, sport, music and food.
    Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • Those groups also have lower access to drugs that can stop the transmission of HIV.
    Tamar Hallerman, AJC.com, 1 July 2026
  • New 2026 graduates have the option of selecting the new RAP or tiered standard repayment plans but also have access to existing repayment options until July 2028.
    Tami Luhby, CNN Money, 1 July 2026
Verb
  • In recent decades, various popes have sought to reconcile with the group and in 2009 Pope Benedict XVI lifted the excommunications of the four bishops ordained in 1988.
    Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 30 June 2026
  • Mutual friends are reportedly hoping Swift and Keleigh can reconcile soon.
    Allison DeGrushe, StyleCaster, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • Roughly two-thirds of American households own their primary residence, according to the Federal Survey of Consumer Finances from 2022, the most recent edition.
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 30 June 2026
  • The capacity of the primary viewing area at the Washington Monument is set at about 150,000, according to Secret Service Special Agent in Charge David Yamen, who runs the agency's dignitary protective division.
    Maria Sullivan, CBS News, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • The unorthodox midterm convention comes as Democrats continue to poll stronger than Republicans ahead of November's critical elections.
    Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 1 July 2026
  • Kennard could have provided a critical floor-spacing piece around Doncic, who thrives when surrounded by lob-catching centers, athletic wings and knockdown shooters.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026

Cite this Entry

“Key.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/key. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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