keycap

or key cap

[ kee-kap ]

noun

1. one of a set of covers for the individual keys on a computer keyboard, used decoratively or for some other purpose in place of those supplied by the manufacturer:

   What better way to spiff up your mechanical keyboard than to get a brand-new set of keycaps?

2. a cover for the head or wide top portion of the key to a lock, making the key easier to identify and to grip while turning in the lock:

   Our 4-pack of vinyl key caps includes one each in a variety of colors—for home, office, shed, or anything else you lock.

Word History and Origins

Origin of keycap¹

First recorded in 1900–05, referring to typewriter keys

Example Sentences

MelGeek has cleverly included studs beneath each keycap, letting you outfit the board with your own Lego keycaps if you so desire.

From The Verge

The keyboard’s switches are south-facing — oriented with the backlight LED on the bottom, rather than the top— to minimize keycap compatibility issues.

From The Verge

A little under a year after Drop released a pair of keycap sets themed around the Elvish and Dwarvish languages from J.R.R.

From The Verge

Drop MT3 keycaps buy one, get one free promo $120 $240 50% off MT3 keycap designs feature a heavily scooped spherical top for your fingers to rest in as you type.

From The Verge

I usually prefer a higher profile keycap, but I did notice that the lower profile and higher actuation force compared to my usual Kailh Box Silver switches led to a cleaner typing experience overall, with fewer typos and missed inputs.

From The Verge