What is a keyway in construction?

A keyway refers to a groove in a placement of concrete filled with concrete from the placement above. It can also refer to the opening in a cylindrical lock that receives the length of the key or a groove in a pulley, sprocket or shaft that fits to a key.

A keyway is always the opening or groove component of two parts, which holds or receives the other fitting part. The purpose of this system can be to create an immovable joint where two pieces come together such as two blocks of concrete or to be the opening of an actual lock and key system.