a usu metal instrument by which the bolt of a lock is turned
something having a similar form or function, e.g. a device used to wind a clock
a small button or knob on a keyboard, e.g. of a computer or typewriter, that is pushed down by a finger to work the machine
any of the levers of a musical instrument that is pressed to produce notes by operating a mechanism controlling an air hole, etc
any of the levers of a keyboard instrument, e.g. a piano, that is pressed to operate the mechanism and produce the notes
a lever that controls an air hole in a woodwind instrument or a valve in a brass instrument
a small switch for opening or closing an electric circuit
a small piece of wood or metal used as a wedge or for preventing motion between parts
a means of gaining or preventing entrance, possession, or control
an instrumental or deciding factor
the key to success
something that gives an explanation, e.g. of symbols used on a chart, or provides a solution, e.g. to a puzzle or code
something that gives an explanation or identification or provides a solution
a list of words or phrases explaining symbols or abbreviations
a piece of secret information used to unlock encrypted messages
in music, a system of seven notes based on their relationship to the first and lowest note, providing the overall tonal framework for a piece of music
in the key of A minor
a characteristic style or tone
a dry usu single-seeded fruit, e.g. of an ash or elm tree
the indentation, roughness, or roughening of a surface to improve adhesion of plaster, paint, glue, etc