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REFERENCE

keys

n. · v.
US //ˈkiz// UK //kˈiːz// keys
  1. 1 for locks (n.)
    A1 Beginner

    small metal objects used to open locks or start a car.

    plural of the physical instrument designed to operate a lock or ignition system.

    Example

    I can't find my car keys anywhere in the house.

    Example

    The concierge handed over the heavy brass keys to the executive suite, explaining that the electronic system was currently undergoing maintenance.

  2. 2 on a keyboard (n.)
    A2 Elementary Computing

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The pianist's fingers flew across the ivory keys, executing the complex concerto with remarkable precision and emotional depth.
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  1. 3 musical scales (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Music

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The symphony transitions through several minor keys before finally resolving into a triumphant C major for the finale.
  2. 4 islands (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate American English

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

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

    Example

    We spent our summer holiday driving through the Florida Keys.

    Example

    The ecosystem of the Keys is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and increased hurricane activity in the Caribbean.
  3. 5 to enter data (v.)
    B1 Intermediate Computing

    to type information into a computer.

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

    Example

    She keys the customer data into the system every morning.

    Example

    The administrator keys the sensitive financial records into the encrypted database to ensure maximum security.
  4. 6 to scratch a car (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The security footage clearly shows the suspect as he keys the side of the luxury sedan before fleeing the scene.
    • scratches
    • vandalises
Idioms1 entry

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