Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

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.


Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Once logged in, I had the option to choose between five different filming feeds, each showing several hotel rooms - visible as soon as a guest triggered the electricity supply by inserting their key card.

From BBC Feb. 5, 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

“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

She rolled her eyes but didn’t answer my question as she took out her key card.

From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Dictionary.com's Learning Companion

Go beyond just looking up words.
Remember them forever with VocabTrainer.

Start training