KeyboardEvent.metaKey

The KeyboardEvent.metaKey read-only property returning a Boolean that indicates if the Meta key was pressed (true) or not (false) when the event occurred. Some operating systems may intercept the key so it is never detected.

Note: On Macintosh keyboards, this is the ⌘ Command key. On Windows keyboards, this is the Windows key (⊞ Windows).

At least as of Firefox 48, the ⊞ Windows key is not considered the "Meta" key. KeyboardEvent.metaKey is false when the ⊞ Windows is pressed.

Syntax

var metaKeyPressed = instanceOfKeyboardEvent.metaKey

Return value

A Boolean

Example

function ismetaKey(e) {
  alert("metaKey = " + e.metaKey);
}
<button onclick="ismetaKey(event)">Click me with the meta key</button>

Specifications

Specification Status Comment
Document Object Model (DOM) Level 3 Events Specification
The definition of 'KeyboardEvent.metaKey' in that specification.
Obsolete Initial definition

Browser compatibility

DesktopMobile
ChromeEdgeFirefoxInternet ExplorerOperaSafariAndroid webviewChrome for AndroidFirefox for AndroidOpera for AndroidSafari on iOSSamsung Internet
metaKeyChrome Full support YesEdge Full support 12Firefox Full support YesIE Full support YesOpera Full support YesSafari Full support YesWebView Android Full support YesChrome Android Full support YesFirefox Android Full support YesOpera Android Full support YesSafari iOS Full support YesSamsung Internet Android Full support Yes

Legend

Full support
Full support

See also