keys

NOUN

item that unlocks

Synonyms

STRONG

latchkey opener passkey screw skeleton

Antonyms

WEAK

lock question

NOUN

answer, solution

Synonyms

STRONGEST

blueprint clue code core guide indicator means passport password sign ticket

STRONG

brand cipher crux cue earmark explanation fulcrum hinge index interpretation lead lever marker nexus nucleus pivot pointer root symptom translation

Antonyms

STRONG

exterior exteriority outside

WEAK

lock question

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Thousands of metres beneath the ground, amid suffocating heat, lies one of the keys to Poland's rumbling mining sector -- and the world economy.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

One of the most promising approaches is quantum cryptography, which uses individual photons to generate encryption keys.

From Science Daily • Apr. 1, 2026

The Travelodge hotel chain says it has made changes to its door key policy to ensure additional or replacement keys were only issued with permission from the person staying in the room.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

When Melanie Ooi and Cristian Paluso-Serrano picked up the keys to their new home in the port town of Uno, Japan, they were awestruck.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 29, 2026

Danny had only ever seen skeleton keys like that in old books and movies.

From "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova