Need definition for crossword clue

[robynw]

Hello,

Well, I bet this is one of the stranger questions posted to this forum, but I wasn't sure where else to look; I am a crossword puzzle creator and I'm making a puzzle in which KEY is the clue for a variety of answers: Florida Island, Anthem Lyricist, Steinway ivory, etc...
I had the answer "ignition starter". The editor didn't know if this is precise description for a "key". If not, I cannot use it.

So my question is: is a KEY an ignition starter? And if so, can anyone lead me to documentation that shows that definition? I will need to provide proof of my findings.

thank you very much, and my apologies for a non-traditional query,

robyn
: )

[maxwedge]

The key is a device that thru a series of steps will activate the starter, but has no direct contact with it.

[shorod]

And now many of the new cars use Intelligent Access RF devices which do not require a key per se. Maybe you should use the phrase "secure opener" or something. The kind of removes the reference from an automobile to a padlock, but I don't know if that matters for your purposes.

-Rod

[Speedy Joe]

I would not say a key is an ignition starter although I think most people would be able to guess the answer. In terms of a car, I would relate a key more to opening the door that starting the engine and I had a quick look on wikipedia and the first description under key was "device to open a lock or door"