key word

noun

: a word that is a key: such as
a
usually keyword : a significant word from a title or document used especially as an index to content
b
: a word exemplifying the meaning or value of a letter or symbol

Examples of key word in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The 21-year-old pop star hilariously reacted to a recent video posted by a Livie who had just gotten one of her lyrics inked on her skin, sans the correct spelling of a key word. Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 9 May 2024 Ryokans are Japan’s answer to the Vermont bed and breakfast, traditional inns with the key word being traditional. Larry Olmsted, Forbes, 2 Oct. 2024 Markets is a key word, since one question raised on the first day is how many monopolies Google might actually have. Lauren Feiner, The Verge, 10 Sep. 2024 Lively’s red carpet fashion choices can be summed up in two key words: elegant and bombshell. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 7 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for key word 

Word History

First Known Use

1762, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of key word was in 1762

Dictionary Entries Near key word

Cite this Entry

“Key word.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/key%20word. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

keyword

noun
key·​word
-ˌwərd
: a word of interest or significance
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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