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key fob

American  
[kee fob] / ˈki ˌfɒb /

noun

  1. a programmed, battery-powered device enabling keyless access or entry, especially to a vehicle, usually carried on a key ring or keychain.

    The windows and sunroof of your car can also be opened and closed using the key fob.

    1. an ornament or other object attached to a key ring or keychain.

      This key fob of tooled leather can hold a small photo.

    2. a key ring or keychain with such an ornament on it.

      Has anyone turned in a key fob with a little foam golf ball and three keys on it?


Etymology

Origin of key fob

First recorded in 1910–15

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.

It pops out when it needs to be used, either automatically through the user’s key fob or phone, or manually by pressing the handle.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 3, 2026

The downside of this feature, Sutter said, is a signal is constantly being emitted from the key fob, similar to a debit card.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 26, 2025

He was identified by a golf hat and a distinct key fob that he was wearing during the riot that matched other online photos of Mr Williams.

From BBC • Nov. 14, 2024

Right now, she just hopes to get a key fob to the team’s new $64 million practice facility/headquarters.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 29, 2024

“Yes, definitely. I talked to him about it. But you need to talk to him too,” Ray says, pushing the button on his key fob that makes the truck lock chirp.

From "The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman" by Gennifer Choldenko

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