key

Sense 1 noun

metal device shaped in such a way that when it is inserted into the appropriate lock the lock's mechanism can be rotated

Sense 2 verb

identify as in botany or biology, for example

Sense 3 adjective

serving as an essential component

a cardinal rule

Sense 4 noun

something crucial for explaining

the key to development is economic integration

Sense 5 verb

provide with a key

We were keyed after the locks were changed in the building

Sense 6 noun

pitch of the voice

he spoke in a low key

Sense 7 verb

vandalize a car by scratching the sides with a key

His new Mercedes was keyed last night in the parking lot

Sense 8 noun

any of 24 major or minor diatonic scales that provide the tonal framework for a piece of music

Sense 9 verb

regulate the musical pitch of

Sense 10 noun

a kilogram of a narcotic drug

they were carrying two keys of heroin

Sense 11 verb

harmonize with or adjust to

key one's actions to the voters' prevailing attitude

Sense 12 noun

a winged often one-seed indehiscent fruit as of the ash or elm or maple

Sense 13 noun

a coral reef off the southern coast of Florida

Sense 14 noun

(basketball) a space (including the foul line) in front of the basket at each end of a basketball court; usually painted a different color from the rest of the court

he hit a jump shot from the top of the key

Sense 15 noun

a list of answers to a test

some students had stolen the key to the final exam

Sense 16 noun

a list of words or phrases that explain symbols or abbreviations

Sense 17 noun

a generic term for any device whose possession entitles the holder to a means of access

a safe-deposit box usually requires two keys to open it

Sense 18 noun

mechanical device used to wind another device that is driven by a spring (as a clock)

Sense 19 noun

the central building block at the top of an arch or vault

Sense 20 noun

a lever (as in a keyboard) that actuates a mechanism when depressed