What does REKEY mean?

rekey

1. Parts of Speech: verb

2. Definitions:

• To change the lock on a door so that a different key is needed to open it.
• To change the combination on a lock so that a new code is needed to open it.

3. Pronunciations:

• US: /riˈki/
• UK: /riːˈkiː/

4. Origin and Usage:

The word "rekey" is a combination of the prefix "re-" meaning "again" and the verb "key". It first appeared in the mid-20th century as a term used by locksmiths to describe the process of changing a lock so that a new key is needed to open it. Today, the term is commonly used in the security industry to describe the process of changing the lock or combination on a door to enhance security.

5. Synonyms:

• Change the lock
• Change the combination

6. Related Words:

• Locks
• Keys
• Doors
• Codes
• Locky

7. Example Sentences:

• The locksmith was able to rekey the lock on the door within a few minutes.
• He decided to rekey the combination on the safe to ensure that no one else could access it.