Keystroked

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To have entered textual data into a computer system by pressing keys on a keyboard
2. To have submitted information or commands to a computer by physically tapping on the keys of a keyboard
3. Performed the action of inputting letters or commands by pressing keyboard keys

Etymology: "Keystroked" is the past tense and past participle of "keystroke," which is formed from "key" and "stroke." The base word is the "keystroke" itself: a single press of a key on a typewriter or computer keyboard. The combination is a straightforward compound, with "key" referring to the lever or button pressed and "stroke" meaning a single blow or act of striking. The verb built from that noun follows the usual pattern for English verbs formed from nouns. Its meaning stays close to the physical act: to have entered information or commands into a computer by pressing its keys. The word therefore carries the image of fingers striking small levers in sequence, even though most keyboards today register presses electronically rather than by moving typebars.