keystrip

English

Etymology

key +‎ strip

Noun

keystrip (plural keystrips)

1. (computing) A physical overlay for a computer keyboard, indicating the functions of certain keys within a particular software package.
   • 1990, Computer Education, numbers 64-72, page 26:

     A keystrip, summarising the uses of the red keys, completes the package.

2. (engineering) A row of pushbuttons.
   • 1947, United States. War Department, Technical Manual, page 127:

     Figure 47 illustrates a type KS-1 keystrip and figure 48 shows a type KS-2 keystrip. Flat-nose pliers or a similar tool can be made to make the adjustments to the keystrips.

   • '1974, GTE Automatic Electric Technical Journal - Volume 14, page 219:

     The wiring to each pushbutton of a keystrip is accomplished by a color-coded plug-socket arrangement.

3. The strip of wood immediately below and in front of the keys of a piano.
   • 1928, Veneers and Plywood - Volume 22, page 24:

     Some time ago the author of this article had the privilege of examinging the keystrip of a piano, sent in by one of the piano companies, which showed a peculiar condition of chipping of the varnish, after the piano had been in service for some time.

   • 1980, The School Musician Director and Teacher - Volume 52, page 23:

     Control panel can either clip onto the keystrip of your piano or be held by the carrying case of the unit.

   • 1983, Keyboard - Volume 9, page 28:

     Convertible case acts as both carrying case and stand for controls (when not clipped to keystrip).

4. (science fiction) A long thin piece of material that serves to operate a lock.
   • 1975, Anthony Boucher, J. Francis McComas, The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, page 117:

     He froze a moment there, keystrip already against the contact plate, hesitant to go on.

   • 2014, Pat Cadigan, Pat Cadigan SF Gateway Omnibus:

     You'll need your keystrip to reenter.