keyboard

[kee-bawrd]

noun

1. the row or set of keys on a piano, organ, or the like.

   I was playing piano before my feet could reach the pedals or my fingers could cover a chord on the keyboard.

2. a set of keys, usually arranged in tiers, for operating a typewriter, computer, cash register, or the like, or a digital representation of the same on a touchscreen used to type on a device such as a smartphone or tablet.

   I spilled coffee on my keyboard, and now the return key sticks so my documents are full of extra line breaks.

3. any of various musical instruments played by means of a pianolike keyboard, as a piano, electric piano, or organ.

   You basically need four people to start a rock band—someone on lead guitar, bass guitar, drums, and keyboard.

verb (used with or without object)

1. Also key in to enter (data) into a computer by means of a keyboard.

   If you can get changes keyboarded by Monday, we should still be able to make the project deadline.

2. to set (text) in type, using a machine that is operated by a keyboard.

keyboard

/ ˈkiːˌbɔːd /

noun

1. 1. a complete set of keys, usually hand-operated, as on a piano, organ, typewriter, or typesetting machine

   2. ( as modifier )

      a keyboard instrument

2. (often plural) a musical instrument, esp an electronic one, played by means of a keyboard

verb

1. to set (a text, etc) in type, onto magnetic tape, or into some other medium, by using a keyboard machine

Other Word Forms

• keyboarder noun
• keyboardist noun
• rekeyboard verb

Word History and Origins

Origin of keyboard¹

First recorded in 1810–20; key ¹ + board

Example Sentences

But they're always nearby - behind a microphone, at a keyboard, or in the stands - ready to pounce after a mistake.

From BBC

After undergoing a process which can last several months, the organoids are ready to be attached to an electrode and then prompted to respond to simple keyboard commands.

From BBC

He plays rhythm guitar and keyboards with the Manchester band, which he once left in 1999 before returning for the Gallagher's recent reunion.

From BBC

At a time when most people use keyboards to write, does handwriting really matter?

From BBC

After the shooting, court documents indicate Robinson texted his partner to say: “Drop what you’re doing, look under my keyboard.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• console 
• manual 
• piano