key plate

noun

Printing.

1. (in color printing) the plate providing the greatest definition of detail, usually the black plate, on which the other plates are registered.

Word History and Origins

Origin of key plate¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Before us was a wide, arch-shaped wooden door, painted glossy gray, with a brass key plate.

From The New Yorker

He hit .375 in 32 at-bats and had key plate appearances as a pinch-hitter.

From New York Times

The key plate in question, attached to a Porsche 928 driven by Clarkson, was H982 FKL.

From The Guardian

There were more spots on the key plate of the washstand, and this also was forced off.

From Project Gutenberg

An attractive knocker, simple brass knob and exceptionally large key plate indicating the great rim lock within, lend a quaint charm to a doorway distinctly pleasing in its entirety.

From Project Gutenberg