shift key

American  

noun

1. a typewriter key that determines whether characters are printed in upper or lower case and controls the printing of numbers and symbols.

2. Computers. a key that performs the same functions as on a typewriter keyboard and also controls other functions, depending on the program.

   To print a file, depress the shift key and a function key.

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shift key British  

noun

1. a key on a typewriter or computer keyboard used to type capital letters and certain numbers and symbols

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Etymology

Origin of shift key

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

The Pentagon had to shift key military assets and Marines from Asia to the Middle East.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 2, 2026

If toggling the shift key while they type out their song titles has officially become the first tiny step toward the red carpet, we’re likely to see more of it.

From Washington Post • Nov. 15, 2022

Here's a quick keyboard shortcut I use all the time: Instead of just Ctrl + V to paste text, add in the shift key.

From Fox News • Feb. 20, 2022

Because it’s got a 75 percent layout, the right shift key is also a little shorter to accommodate an arrow key to the right.

From The Verge • Jun. 21, 2019

On my keyboard, if I press the shift key I cannot then type a lower-case letter.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton