If you’ve ever used a key fob to enter your apartment, condo, or office, you might have wondered — why is it even called a “fob”? It’s one of those words we use all the time but rarely think about. The term “fob” actually has a surprisingly long history that goes back hundreds of years — long before electronic access systems ever existed.
The origin of the word “fob”
The word “fob” originally referred to a small pocket or decorative chain used to carry items like watches or keys. In the 1800s, gentlemen often wore pocket watches attached to a chain, and that small pocket on a vest where the watch sat was called a “fob pocket.”
The name likely comes from either the German word “Fuppe” or the Low German word “Fobke,” which both mean small pocket or little pouch.
Over time, people began to associate “fob” not just with the pocket, but with the object attached to it — like a keychain, charm, or watch ornament.
(Source: Remotes and Keys)
Why we still use the term today
Even though today’s fobs use RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) or NFC (Near-Field Communication) technology instead of keys or chains, the old name stuck around. It’s simple, short, and familiar — and it perfectly fits a device that’s always kept close at hand.
So, when you hear “key fob,” you’re actually hearing a mix of history and modern tech — a word that’s evolved from a small pocket to a digital access tool.
Final thoughts: Why Is It Called a FOB? (Apartment Key Fob)
The word “fob” might sound modern, but its roots go back to the 1800s. What was once a pocket accessory for watches has transformed into a compact, high-tech key for buildings and apartments.
And while technology keeps changing, the idea behind it hasn’t — it’s still about convenience and access.
If you’d like to learn more about how fobs work and how they can be copied or replaced, check out our other blog posts!
Recent Comments