rhizoverbBeta
DictionarykeyEssential importance
adjective / noun / verb

key

KEE/kiː/

An implement that enables a lock to open.

A metal key rests beside an open padlock.

A large, clearly recognizable metal key beside an open padlock, with the key’s toothed blade and the matching keyway prominently visible.
Etymology
keyOld Englishmetal instrument for operating a lock

Cæg already meant a metal piece that operated a lock, so the selected meaning continues its concrete Old English use. Its earlier origin is unknown.

In context

NourishED Research Foundation2:07
you can think of it like a master key and it's looking for one very, very specific lock in all our complex neural wiring.
Mescaline // Peyote: From Cactus to Consciousness (Mastinu et al., 2023)

More examples

  • She turns the key to unlock the front door.
  • We leave a spare key with our neighbor.
  • Neither of these keys fits the mailbox lock.

Forms

key · keys

keyless adjective — Designed to work without a key.

Similar words

passkey
Usually opens several locks rather than just one particular lock.
keycard
Uses electronically stored information rather than a toothed metal blade.