A keyboard button that, when held down in conjunction with another key, generates a non-printable control character or executes a software function. In terminal environments, these sequences historically sent direct commands to the hardware, such as interrupting a process or clearing the screen. It remains a primary modifier for operating system shortcuts.
If the terminal session freezes, hold the control key and press C to send an interrupt signal.
Also heard as
- Ctrl
Related terms
Keyboard
A primary input device consisting of mechanical or membrane switches used to enter alphanumeric data into a computer.
Escape character
A specific control code that changes the meaning of the data immediately following it.
Escape sequence
A specific string of characters used to send control instructions rather than text data to a terminal or device.