key /kiː/ CET4 TEM4 ( keying, keyed, keys )

• 1. 

  N-COUNT A key is a specially shaped piece of metal that you place in a lock and turn in order to open or lock a door, or to start or stop the engine of a vehicle. 钥匙

  例：

  They put the key in the door and entered.

  他们用钥匙开了门然后走了进去。

• 2. 

  N-COUNT The keys on a computer keyboard or typewriter are the buttons that you press in order to operate it. 键

  例：

  Finally, press the Delete key.

  最后，按删除键。

• 3. 

  N-COUNT The keys of a piano or organ are the long narrow pieces of wood or plastic that you press in order to play it. 琴键

  例：

  ...the black and white keys on a piano keyboard.

  …一架钢琴键盘上的黑白琴键。

• 4. 

  N-VAR In music, a key is a scale of musical notes that starts on one specific note. 调

  例：

  ...the key of A minor.

  …A小调。

• 5. 

  N-COUNT The key on a map or diagram or in a technical book is a list of the symbols or abbreviations used and their meanings. 略语记号

  例：

  You will find a key at the front of the book.

  你在书的前面会看到一个略语记号。

• 6. 

  ADJ The key person or thing in a group is the most important one. 关键的 [ADJ n]

  例：

  He is expected to be the key witness at the trial.

  预计他将成为审判时的关键证人。

• 7. 

  N-COUNT The key to a desirable situation or result is the way in which it can be achieved. 关键

  例：

  The key to success is to be ready from the start.

  成功的关键是从一开始就做好准备。

• 8. 

  N-COUNT A key is a small low island or reef, especially one in the Gulf of Mexico. (尤指墨西哥湾内的) 低岛; 礁

  例：

  ...the Florida Keys.

  …佛罗里达群岛。

• 9. 

  V to scratch the paintwork of (a car) with a key 用钥匙刮(汽车的)漆面