shift key

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.
Origin
1900-05
Examples from the web for shift key
  • It is browser dependent so if that doesn't work try it with the shift key held down instead.
  • Though the raised keyboard was easy to touch type with, the right shift key is annoyingly small.
  • Holding down the shift key while hitting the tab key will reverse direction of tab.
  • Holding down the shift key while click-dragging a box zooms the map to that box.
  • Hold down the control or shift key while clicking for more spectral lines.
British Dictionary definitions for shift key

shift key

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