alt
Alt (noun) means a keyboard modifier key used together with other keys to trigger alternate commands. Example: “Press Alt and Tab together to switch windows.”
How to Use Alt
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither the Alt key on a keyboard, or slang for a backup/secondary account online.
Word Forms
alted past tense, alts plural, Alts plural, alts singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
Press _____ and Tab together to switch windows.
Etymology
From Latin altus, "high" — the same root as "altitude" and "alto".
Synonyms
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Rhymes for alt
See all rhymes for alt →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “alt” mean?
The word “alt” means a keyboard modifier key used together with other keys to trigger alternate commands. In plain terms, either the Alt key on a keyboard, or slang for a backup/secondary account online.
How do you pronounce “alt”?
“Alt” is pronounced awlt (/ɑlt/ in IPA).
How do you use “alt” in a sentence?
Here is “alt” used in a sentence: “Press Alt and Tab together to switch windows.”
What part of speech is “alt”?
“Alt” is a noun.
Where does the word “alt” come from?
The word “alt” comes from Latin. From Latin altus, "high" — the same root as "altitude" and "alto".
Is “alt” a common word?
“Alt” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “alt” have?
“Alt” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a keyboard modifier key used together with other keys to trigger alternate commands.
What is the difference between the "Alt" key and the "Ctrl" key?
Both are keyboard modifier keys used together with other keys to trigger alternate commands, but they typically control different shortcuts depending on the software and operating system. Neither key does anything meaningful on its own.
What does "alt" mean in gaming or on social media?
In gaming and social media, "alt" informally refers to a secondary or alternate account, often used alongside a person's main account for a different purpose, such as testing or privacy.
Is "alt" the same on Mac keyboards as on Windows keyboards?
Mac keyboards often label the equivalent key "Option" rather than "Alt," though it serves a similar function as a modifier key used with other keys to trigger alternate commands.
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