1. 钥匙
    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.

key的意思

    e.g. They put the key in the door and entered...
           他们用钥匙打开门进去了。
    e.g. She reached for her coat and car keys.
           她伸手拿外套和汽车钥匙。

2. （计算机或打字机的）键
    The keys on a computer keyboard or typewriter are the buttons that you press in order to operate it.

3. （钢琴或风琴的）键
    The keys of a piano or organ are the long narrow pieces of wood or plastic that you press in order to play it.

4. （音乐的）调
    In music, a key is a scale of musical notes that starts on one specific note.

    e.g. ...the key of A minor.
           A小调

5. （地图、图解或科技书籍的）略语表，符号表，凡例
    The key on a map or diagram or in a technical book is a list of the symbols or abbreviations used and their meanings.

key的近义词

    e.g. You will find a key at the front of the book.
           你会在书的前面找到略语表。

6. 最重要的；关键的
    The key person or thing in a group is the most important one.

    e.g. He is expected to be the key witness at the trial...
           他将成为审判的关键证人。
    e.g. Education is likely to be a key issue in the next election.
           在下届选举中教育可能成为最重要的一个议题。

7. 关键；要诀
    The key to a desirable situation or result is the way in which it can be achieved.

    e.g. The key to success is to be ready from the start...
           成功的关键在于从一开始就要准备充分。
    e.g. Diet and relaxation are two important keys to good health.
           限制饮食和放松身心是保持健康的两个要诀。

8. see also: master key
    under lock and key -> see lock

相关词组：key in