key
78
9.1
- noun
- /ki/
- Specialized
:
sámara
- In the garden, we found a key from the elm tree that had fallen during the storm.
Examples
-
Each spring, the ash trees release their keys into the breeze, scattering seeds over the ground.
-
Using classification keys and field guides, identify the species found in the pools you examined.
Academic text (1995) -
Even the stylish forged iron keys contribute to the aesthetic character of the musical instrument.
Academic text (2008) -
In this light, Carpentier's own theatre activity of the 1920s and 1930s provides keys to his narrative universe.
Academic text (1998) -
Very carefully, Dwight and Toby finish painting the dark ivory keys to match the rest of the room.
Fiction book (1993) -
The company covers wood keys with ivory-colored Colorcomp thermoplastic to simulate the look of natural ivory.
Academic text (2000) -
The maple tree produced a small key that twirled gently to the ground in autumn.
Synonyms
1
9.9
A dry, winged fruit from trees like maple that carries one seed as it falls
A winged fruit from maple or ash trees with one seed that spins as it falls
A small dry fruit that does not open to let out its seed
A tree that makes small nuts with wing-like parts that the wind carries
Idioms
Compounds
- Specialized
1
3.6
A key on Apple keyboards that you press with other keys to use shortcuts
- Specialized
1
4.1
A secure place on a computer that stores passwords and secret codes for apps and the system
- Specialized
1
2.3
A key on a keyboard that moves the cursor to the right to indent or align text
- Archaic
1
7.7
A small lever device used to send messages as dots and dashes by making and breaking an electric circuit
- Specialized
A key on a computer keyboard that you press with other keys to do special actions
- Specialized
A winged fruit from maple or ash trees with one seed that spins as it falls
- Specialized
A set of sharps or flats at the start of written music showing its key
A repeated decorative border of straight lines that turn in square corners, often on vases and buildings
- Specialized
A small metal tool with a six-sided end for turning screws with a matching hole
- Specialized
A small metal tool with a six-sided tip that turns screws with a six-sided hole in the head
- Archaic
A small metal key with a square hole used to wind old pocket devices that tell time
Surface Forms
Etymology
The seed called a key (like maple 'keys') has an old name; a helpful way to remember it is to think of each seed as a little 'key' that can open the start of a new tree.