What does "function key" mean?

Any of a set of keys on a personal computer or terminal keyboard used to activate a predefined or programmable function, especially a numbered row of keys (F1, F2, etc.) above the alphanumeric keys.

Function key

Q: What is a synonym for "function key"?

Common synonyms include: hotkey, keyboard shortcut, modifier key, secondary function key, special key.

noun

noun ·Rare ·Advanced level

Definitions

Noun

1
Any of a set of keys on a personal computer or terminal keyboard used to activate a predefined or programmable function, especially a numbered row of keys (F1, F2, etc.) above the alphanumeric keys.

Synonyms

All synonyms

hotkey keyboard shortcut modifier key secondary function key special key

Antonyms

All antonyms

dead key main function key nonfunctional key primary function key

Etymology

First use appears c. 1930 in the listing of U.S. Patents.

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