keyboard

Everyday

1. A keyboard is the set of keys with letters, numbers and symbols that you press to type into a computer, tablet or phone. tree →
2. A keyboard is the row of black and white keys on a piano. tree →
3. A keyboard is an electronic musical instrument with piano keys. tree →

In the lessons

In computing lessons, pupils learn keyboard skills: home keys, the space bar, shift for capitals, enter and backspace; most English keyboards use the QWERTY layout. In music lessons, pupils play tunes on a keyboard. Phrases: keyboard shortcut, type on the keyboard, play the keyboard, on-screen keyboard.

Examples

• Type your name using the keyboard. tree →
• Press the space bar to put a space between words. tree →
• Hold down shift to make a capital letter. tree →
• I am learning to play the keyboard. tree →
• The piano keyboard has black and white keys. tree →
• The keyboard shortcut to copy is Ctrl and C. tree →
• Keep drinks away from the keyboard. tree →

Note

Countable: keyboards. One word. Most keyboards in English-speaking countries are QWERTY, named after the first six letters on the top row. A piano keyboard and a typing keyboard both have «keys».