rekey: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical
Quick answer
What does “rekey” mean?
To enter information again via a keyboard.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To enter information again via a keyboard; to change or reset a digital or mechanical key or lock.
To reprogram or update the security settings of a device or system, often involving new authentication data.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant regional difference in core meaning. Spelling remains the same; pronunciation may slightly differ.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally uncommon in general use in both regions, but standard within technical fields.
Grammar
How to Use “rekey” in a Sentence
rekey [object]rekey [object] with [new key/data][object] must be rekeyedVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “rekey” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The clerk had to rekey the entire manuscript after the file corrupted.
- You'll need to call a locksmith to rekey the front door.
American English
- IT asked us to rekey all the employee access cards.
- After the hack, the whole system had to be rekeyed.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in IT security policies ('We must rekey the encryption after the breach').
Academic
Very rare outside computer science or security literature.
Everyday
Almost never used in casual conversation. A locksmith might use it literally.
Technical
Standard term in IT security and physical lock-smithing ('Re-key the database', 'Re-key the deadbolt').
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “rekey”
- Using 'retype' for security resets. Confusing 'rekey' (verb) with 'key' (noun).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency, specialised term used mainly in IT security and locksmithing.
'Retype' simply means to type again. 'Rekey' implies entering data again, often for verification or correction, or specifically changing the key/lock in a security system.
Yes, a locksmith can 'rekey' a lock by changing its internal pins so it works with a new key, while keeping the same lock hardware.
The standard past tense and past participle is 'rekeyed' (e.g., 'He rekeyed the lock'). 'Rekey'd' is non-standard and should be avoided.
To enter information again via a keyboard.
Rekey is usually technical in register.
Rekey: in British English it is pronounced /ˌriːˈkiː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌriˈkiː/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'REdo the KEYing' – you have to do the key action (typing or locking) again.
Conceptual Metaphor
REWRITING A SECURITY CODE
Practice
Quiz
In which scenario is 'rekey' most appropriately used?