key card

American  

noun

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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Example Sentences

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

As he slipped the key card into the reader on his hotel room door and tried the handle - to no avail - he realised what he had done.

From BBC • Aug. 15, 2024

“People look at the hotel key card or Dawn soap and think this is sloppy,” said Joe Buccino, a Spirit spokesman.

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

It was the black metal key card of the commander in chief, a card that hung around the commander’s neck until it was time to hand it off to the next commander.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin