star key: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Technical/Everyday
Quick answer
What does “star key” mean?
The '*' key on a telephone keypad or keyboard, also known as the asterisk key.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The '*' key on a telephone keypad or keyboard, also known as the asterisk key.
A key or tool with a star-shaped (often Torx) head, used for screws in technical/engineering contexts. More broadly, a key (physical or digital) granting special access, often metaphorically linked to fame or privilege (e.g., a 'star' performer's access).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal. Both use 'star key' for telephones. 'Torx key' is more specific for the tool in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral in technical contexts. The metaphorical use ('key to stardom') is more informal and journalistic.
Frequency
Low frequency overall. Slightly more common in IT/telephony instructions and DIY contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “star key” in a Sentence
Press + [star key] + [to + infinitive] (Press the star key to continue).Use + [star key] + [for + NP] (Use a star key for security screws).Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “star key” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Star-key the code to authorise it.
- You'll need to star-key that function.
American English
- Star-key the code to authorize it.
- Just star-key it to proceed.
adverb
British English
- He pressed the button star-key quickly.
- (Rare, typically not used)
American English
- She entered it star-key fast.
- (Rare, typically not used)
adjective
British English
- The star-key function is disabled.
- It's a star-key entry system.
American English
- The star-key feature is disabled.
- It's a star-key access point.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In teleconference instructions: 'To enter the meeting, enter the code followed by the star key.'
Academic
Rare. Possibly in linguistics discussing symbol names or in engineering manuals.
Everyday
Following automated phone system prompts: 'For more options, press the star key.'
Technical
Referring to a Torx screwdriver: 'This panel requires a T8 star key for removal.'
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “star key”
- Confusing it with the 'hash' (#) key. Using 'star key' to mean any important key (e.g., 'car key').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in the context of telephones and keyboards, they are synonymous. 'Star key' is the more common everyday term.
It's a specific type of screwdriver or bit with a six-point star-shaped pattern, used for tamper-resistant screws in electronics, cars, and other machinery.
Informally, in tech/telephony contexts, it can be used as a verb meaning 'to press the star key' (e.g., 'Star-key the code'). This is industry jargon, not standard formal English.
The symbol '*' visually resembles a stylized star. The name distinguishes it from the 'pound' (#) or 'hash' key on the same keypad.
The '*' key on a telephone keypad or keyboard, also known as the asterisk key.
Star key is usually technical/everyday in register.
Star key: in British English it is pronounced /ˈstɑː ˌkiː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈstɑr ˌki/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The key to stardom (metaphorical, not direct).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a famous movie STAR unlocking a door with a key shaped like a star (*).
Conceptual Metaphor
ACCESS IS A KEY; A SYMBOL IS A TOOL.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'star key' most likely refer to a physical tool?