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noun Uncommon

keynote

KEE-noht

Keynote (noun) means a major speech that sets out the central theme of a conference or event. Example: “The CEO delivered the keynote at the tech conference.”

noun
1
A major speech that sets out the central theme of a conference or event.
"The CEO delivered the keynote at the tech conference."
2
The main idea or theme running through a piece of writing, speech, or event.
"Hope was the keynote of her entire campaign."
verb
1
To give the main address at a conference or event.
"She was invited to keynote the marketing summit."

How to Use Keynote

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe headline speech at an event, or the central theme it expresses.

Common pairings
keynote speech keynote speaker deliver the keynote

Word Forms

keynoted past tense, keynotes plural, keynotes singular

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The CEO delivered the _____ at the tech conference.

Etymology

From "key" (as in the musical key a piece is built on) plus "note", extended figuratively to mean the central theme of any speech or event.

Related Words

Rhymes for keynote

See all rhymes for keynote →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “keynote” mean?

The word “keynote” means a major speech that sets out the central theme of a conference or event. In plain terms, the headline speech at an event, or the central theme it expresses.

How do you pronounce “keynote”?

“Keynote” is pronounced KEE-noht (/ˈkiːˌnoʊt/ in IPA).

How do you use “keynote” in a sentence?

Here is “keynote” used in a sentence: “The CEO delivered the keynote at the tech conference.”

What part of speech is “keynote”?

Depending on how it is used, “keynote” can be a noun and a verb.

Is “keynote” a common word?

“Keynote” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “keynote” have?

“Keynote” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a major speech that sets out the central theme of a conference or event.

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