key card

American  

noun

key cards plural

1. a plastic card, similar to a credit card, containing data on an embedded magnetized strip that can electronically unlock a door, activate a machine, etc.

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• key cards
  plural

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

key card

John Nowell, who was part of a corporate group staying at the hotel, told the BBC that his key card allowed him into a room where the occupant was in the middle of a shower.

From BBC ● Apr. 23, 2026

With a digital key card for Chuck’s Arcade starting at $10, the buy-in to try out the space isn’t large, but this felt like a tentative step into adulthood.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 28, 2025

In fact, the company says it is now properly authorized to use the soap as well as a newly created tool that resembles a key card.

From New York Times ● Apr. 11, 2024

And why couldn't I even remember how to use my key card?

From Salon ● Sep. 3, 2023

“Assuming the key card works, we still need to get security to open the gates into the lab area.”

From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste