Roles

WAI-ARIA: Role=Definition

Authored By :Raghavendra Satish Peri Last Updated :April 24, 2024 Roles

A definition of a term or concept.

Description

A definition of a term or concept. See related term.

Authors SHOULD identify the element being defined by giving that element a role of term and referencing it with the aria-labelledby attribute.

Role=Definition Example

Inline Definition Example

In the example below, the definition of a term that is described in the natural flow of the narrative is associated with the term itself using the aria-labelledby attribute:

<p>The doctor explained it had been a <dfn id="placebo">placebo</dfn>, or <span role="definition" aria-labelledby="placebo"> 
an inert preparation prescribed more for the mental relief of the patient than for its actual effect on a disorder.</span>
</p>

Definition List Example

In the example below, the definitions in a formal definition list are associated with the terms they define using the aria-labelledby attribute:

<dl>
<dt id="anathema">anathema</dt>
<dd role="definition" aria-labelledby="anathema">a ban or curse solemnly pronounced by ecclesiastical authority
and accompanied by excommunication</dd>
<dd role="definition" aria-labelledby="anathema">a vigorous denunciation : cursor</dd>
<dt id="homily">homily</dt>
<dd role="definition" aria-labelledby="homily">a usually short sermon</dd>
<dd role="definition" aria-labelledby="homily">a lecture or discourse on or of a moral theme</dd>
</dl>

HTML Example

<span role="term" aria-labelledby="def1">Love</span>
<span id="def1" role="definition">an intense feeling of deep affection.</span>

Characteristics

Superclass Role

section

Related Concepts

HTML dd
HTML dfn

Inherited States and Properties

Name From

author

Semantic HTML

No HTML element equivalent.

Reference

WAI-ARIA 1.2 Specification
Refer to the notes from the WAI-ARIA 1.2 specification for more information on role=definition.

Raghavendra Satish Peri

Raghavendra Satish Peri empowers enterprises with his expertise in digital accessibility and marketing. Through his impactful work, he collaborates with both small businesses and large enterprises, spearheading digital transformation initiatives. Raghavendra is the author behind the influential Accessibility Blog hosted at DigitalA11Y.com, where he delves into the intricate realm of digital accessibility and its significance.
Passionate about fostering change within the tech landscape, Raghavendra actively inspires local tech communities through engaging meetups and mentorship. He is the driving force behind HelloA11Y.com, a vibrant platform that unites accessibility professionals, developers, and enthusiasts, propelling the adoption of accessible practices.
Beyond the digital realm, Raghavendra seeks diverse experiences. You might find him exploring various cuisines at local cafes and restaurants or immersing himself in thought-provoking audio books. His insights and musings also find a home on his Personal Blog at raghava.in, where he shares his thoughts and experiences with a wider audience.

Roles