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What is another word for Key? – 218 Key Synonyms

    Need another word for Key? Use these synonyms of Key from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    clue solution answer password code cipher lock opener device tool instrument gadget mechanism lever switch button dial combination secret credential authentication clearance permit license badge token symbol indicator pointer guide index indicator marker sign signal cue hint tip suggestion proposal recommendation advice pointer reference lead thread string wire sequence series chain link fastener latch hasp catch bolt bar seal stamp imprint emblem logo motif design pattern image icon figurine replica model miniature representation replica duplicate copy counterpart equivalent counterpart analogue match equivalent peer equal counterpart analogue match peer equal

    Meaning of Key

    According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a key is "a device for operating a lock, consisting of a flat piece of metal with cuts or teeth on one edge, used for turning the wards of a lock and so opening or closing it."

    Definitions

    • Merriam-Webster defines a key as "a device (as a flat piece of metal) for operating a lock" or "a means of gaining or explaining access to something."
    • Cambridge Dictionary defines a key as "a flat, usually metal, object that is used for opening or closing a lock" or "the most important person, thing, or idea in a situation."

    Example Uses

    • The key to the house was hidden under the doormat.
    • She found the key to solving the puzzle after hours of trying.
    • The new employee was given a key to the office building.
    • The key speaker at the conference was a renowned expert in the field.
    • The key to a successful business is providing excellent customer service.

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms

    obstacle barrier block hindrance impediment obstacle obstruction barrier lock seal fastener latch hasp catch bolt bar seal blockage restriction limitation prohibition ban veto refusal denial rejection exclusion omission absence lack deficiency shortage scarcity insufficiency inadequacy unavailability

    Related Nouns

    lock door gate barrier obstacle block latch hasp catch bolt bar seal device tool instrument gadget mechanism lever switch button dial combination code cipher password credential authentication clearance permit license badge token

    Related Verbs

    unlock lock open close turn twist push pull press click operate work function activate deactivate enable disable fasten unfasten secure unsecure seal unseal encode decode encrypt decrypt

    Related Adjectives

    important essential crucial vital necessary required necessary indispensable fundamental basic primary principal main central critical decisive determining influential significant major significant minor secondary auxiliary supplementary additional extra optional unnecessary unimportant insignificant irrelevant useless worthless