The editor command loop reads key sequences using the function
read-key-sequence, which uses read-event. These and other
functions for event input are also available for use in Lisp programs.
See also momentary-string-display in Temporary Displays,
and sit-for in Waiting for Elapsed Time or Input. See Terminal Input, for
functions and variables for controlling terminal input modes and
debugging terminal input.
For higher-level input facilities, see Minibuffers.