Delete Key Computer Definition

Often abbreviated as Del, the Delete key is used to remove characters and other objects. On PCs, the Delete key generally removes the character immediately under the cursor (or to the right of the insertion point), or the highlighted text or object. Note the difference between the Delete key, which deletes the character under the cursor, and the Backspace key, which deletes the character to the left of the cursor or insertion point. On Macintoshes, the Delete key generally acts like a PC’s Backspace key, deleting the character immediately in front of the insertion point.