How Do You Spell KEYS?

Pronunciation: [kˈiːz] (IPA)

The word "keys" is spelled with the letters k-e-y-s, and has two syllables. The first syllable is pronounced with a long "e" sound, represented by /i:/ in IPA transcription. The second syllable has a short "i" sound, represented by /ɪ/. Together, they form the word /ki:z/. The letter "k" represents the voiceless velar plosive /k/, while the letter "s" represents the voiceless alveolar fricative /s/. In English, the word "keys" can refer to either a set of metal objects used to open locks, or to the white or black levers on a piano or computer keyboard.

KEYS Meaning and Definition

  1. Keys are a set of small, usually metallic, objects designed to open or close locks. These objects possess specific shapes or configurations that match corresponding locks, enabling them to unlock or secure doors, cabinets, safes, vehicles, and other secured compartments. Keys are typically made from materials such as brass, steel, or other durable alloys to ensure their strength and longevity. They are commonly equipped with a handle or grip, allowing for easy handling and manipulation.

    Keys serve as physical credentials or authorization mechanisms, granting the possessor access or control over something that is otherwise restricted or protected. They symbolize ownership, security, and control, enabling individuals to safeguard their possessions or access private areas. In addition to conventional locks, keys are also utilized in various electronic or digital systems, such as key cards or key fobs, which incorporate electronic information to provide access to restricted spaces or electronic systems.

    Metaphorically, the term "keys" is often used to represent solutions, answers, or secrets that unlock understanding or access to something. In this sense, "keys" signify knowledge or means of overcoming obstacles, opening doors to new opportunities, or unraveling mysteries. Moreover, the term "keys" can also represent musical instruments, particularly piano keys, which are slender, flat parts uniquely arranged to produce different musical notes when pressed, making them essential components in musical composition and performance.

  2. Small shoals or uninhabited islets.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for KEYS *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for KEYS

Etymology of KEYS

The word "keys" has an interesting etymology. It derives from the Old English word "cǣg" which meant "key" or "latch". This Old English term has Germanic origins, specifically from the Proto-Germanic word "kaigaz" meaning "key" or "pin". The root of this word is thought to come from a Proto-Indo-European base "*gei" meaning "to go" or "to bend". This sense of "going" or "bending" can be traced in the idea of a key's motion when unlocking or turning a lock. The Old English term "cǣg" eventually developed into the Middle English word "keye" or "kei", which later transformed into the modern English "key" or "keys" as we use it today.

Idioms with the word KEYS

  • the keys to the kingdom The idiom "the keys to the kingdom" refers to a situation where someone is given complete or unlimited access or control over something valuable or important. It originated from biblical references, where the phrase is used to symbolize authority and power. The idiom implies the possession of significant influence or decision-making ability in a particular area or domain.

Similar spelling words for KEYS

Conjugate verb Keys

CONDITIONAL

I would key
we would key
you would key
he/she/it would key
they would key

FUTURE

I will key
we will key
you will key
he/she/it will key
they will key

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have keyed
we will have keyed
you will have keyed
he/she/it will have keyed
they will have keyed

PAST

I keyed
we keyed
you keyed
he/she/it keyed
they keyed

PAST PERFECT

I had keyed
we had keyed
you had keyed
he/she/it had keyed
they had keyed

PRESENT

I key
we key
you key
he/she/it keys
they key

PRESENT PERFECT

I have keyed
we have keyed
you have keyed
he/she/it has keyed
they have keyed
I am keying
we are keying
you are keying
he/she/it is keying
they are keying
I was keying
we were keying
you were keying
he/she/it was keying
they were keying
I will be keying
we will be keying
you will be keying
he/she/it will be keying
they will be keying
I have been keying
we have been keying
you have been keying
he/she/it has been keying
they have been keying
I had been keying
we had been keying
you had been keying
he/she/it had been keying
they had been keying
I will have been keying
we will have been keying
you will have been keying
he/she/it will have been keying
they will have been keying
I would have keyed
we would have keyed
you would have keyed
he/she/it would have keyed
they would have keyed
I would be keying
we would be keying
you would be keying
he/she/it would be keying
they would be keying
I would have been keying
we would have been keying
you would have been keying
he/she/it would have been keying
they would have been keying

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