Word Pronunciation & Dictionary

keys to the kingdom

Word Rarity Uncommon

Frequency: Zipf frequency 4.19 in modern English

Syllables: keys -to the k-ing-dom
IPA

34

Scrabble Score

16

Letters

4

Syllables

12

Unique Chars

Meaning

noun

A resource, usually information or knowledge, the possession of which gives the possessor access to power.

Example Sentences

"This fortress, from its strong position, was considered as one of the keys to the kingdom, and had belonged to the Earl of March, a disappointed candidate for the crown, who had now attached himself to the banner of England."
"The passwords they control are the keys to the kingdom, so what protections should be taken?"
"Not many people bother to learn them these days. Everything is so rushed, so many demands on a senator's time. But these rules unlock the power of the Senate. They're the keys to the kingdom."

Etymology

Originating from the concept of resources that were the means of obtaining control over an actual kingdom, i.e., a realm under the rulership of a king. Compare also King James Bible Matthew 16:19, "I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven."

Inflected Forms

keys of the kingdom (alternative) key to the kingdom (alternative)

Questions

What does keys to the kingdom mean?: A resource, usually information or knowledge, the possession of which gives the possessor access to power.
Where does keys to the kingdom come from?: Originating from the concept of resources that were the means of obtaining control over an actual kingdom, i.e., a realm under the rulership of a king. Compare also King James Bible Matthew 16:19, "I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven."

How to pronounce keys to the kingdom

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