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The term that refers to any material that can be bitted to become an operating key for a specific locking device is "Key Blank." A key blank is an uncut key that has not yet been specifically shaped or bitted to fit a lock. It serves as the starting point from which a locksmith creates a functional key by cutting or bitting grooves into it according to the specifications of the lock it is intended to operate. This process ensures that the key will align correctly with the internal pins of the lock, allowing it to turn and operate the locking mechanism.

Other terms, while related to keys and locking mechanisms, do not denote the same concept. A key section refers to the specific design or profile of a key and its corresponding lock, which is relevant but does not capture the essence of a material that is yet to be shaped into a key. A composite keyway indicates a type of locking mechanism that can accommodate multiple key types or profiles, but again, this is separate from the idea of a blank key that can be bitted. Lastly, a multiplex key blank generally pertains to a specific type of multi-profile key blank but is not as broadly applicable as the general concept of a key blank. Thus, the key blank stands out as the correct