keys

A2 · Elementary Plural noun Computing

n. the buttons you press on a computer, phone, or piano.

n. the individual levers or buttons on a musical instrument or data-entry device.

“The keys on this laptop are very quiet when you type.”

“The pianist's fingers flew across the ivory keys, executing the complex concerto with remarkable precision and emotional depth.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun Music

n. the sets of notes or scales used to play a piece of music.

n. the sets of notes or harmonic systems based on a particular tonic note.

“The singer asked the band to play the song in different keys to find the best one for her voice.”

“The symphony transitions through several minor keys before finally resolving into a triumphant C major for the finale.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun American English

n. a chain of small, low islands, especially near Florida.

n. a series of low-lying islands or reefs, specifically referring to the Florida Keys.

“We spent our summer holiday driving through the Florida Keys.”

“The ecosystem of the Keys is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and increased hurricane activity in the Caribbean.”

B1 · Intermediate Computing

v. to type information into a computer.

v. the third-person singular present form of 'key', meaning to enter data via a keyboard.

“She keys the customer data into the system every morning.”

“The administrator keys the sensitive financial records into the encrypted database to ensure maximum security.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Informal

v. to scratch the paint of a car using a metal key.

v. the third-person singular present form of 'key', meaning to deliberately damage a vehicle's bodywork with a key.

“He was angry and keys his ex-girlfriend's car in the car park.”

“The security footage clearly shows the suspect as he keys the side of the luxury sedan before fleeing the scene.”