key signature

noun

: the sharps or flats placed after a clef in music to indicate the key

Examples of key signature in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Most of the songs were sung a half-step down from their original key signature. — Katie Reul, Variety, 18 Oct. 2022 In musical terms, values are the key signature. — Thomas Lim, Forbes.com, 18 Feb. 2026 Once the saxophone riff was added, the song was completely reworked around that, and nothing else but the tempo and key signature was retained. — Katie Bain, Billboard, 1 July 2021 And then there’s his fascinating key signatures, and chord changes, and the influence of Brazilian bossa nova. — Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 8 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for key signature

Word History

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of key signature was in 1843

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keyset

key signature

keyslot

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Style

“Key signature.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/key%20signature. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

key signature

noun

: the sharps or flats placed after a clef in music to indicate the key

key signature

noun

Examples of key signature in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

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