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
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.
These key words and the beliefs that underlay them were commonly used and known by colonists in America. Dr. Matthew Warshauer, Hartford Courant, 26 June 2026 Now everyone looks better and everyone looks the same and everyone parrots important key words and everyone uses punchy action verbs. Annie Lowrey, The Atlantic, 2 June 2026 Foundation is a key word here, and that view has been reinforced in a recent analysis of enterprise intelligence systems, published by Bloomfire. Joe McKendrick, Forbes.com, 14 May 2026 Threatened is the key word, as capitulations became the norm. Amy Lawrence, New York Times, 1 May 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

“Key word.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/key%20word. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

keyword

noun
key·​word
-ˌwərd
: a word of interest or significance
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