DOUBLE CLICK Meaning and
Definition
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Double click is a computer and technology term that refers to the action of quickly pressing and releasing a computer mouse button twice in rapid succession. It is a commonly used technique to initiate an action or command on graphical user interfaces (GUIs), particularly in operating systems like Windows.
When a user double clicks on an icon, an application, or a file, it typically triggers a defined action associated with that specific element. For instance, double-clicking on a file may open it within the associated application, while double-clicking on a folder may open it to display its contents.
The purpose of double clicking is to differentiate it from a single click, which commonly selects or highlights an object on the screen. The speed of the clicks is vital to ensure that the system recognizes it as a double click and not two separate single clicks.
Double clicking has become a standard interaction method because it provides a simple and effective means of initiating actions in graphical interfaces, especially for users who are familiar with this convention. It offers a convenient way to interact with desktop icons, files, folders, and various other elements in software applications.
Furthermore, double clicking is not limited to just mouse buttons. It can also be performed on touchpad surfaces, graphic tablets, or other input devices that emulate mouse functionality. Overall, double clicking plays a crucial role in computer navigation and operation, allowing users to execute commands and perform actions quickly and easily.
Etymology of DOUBLE CLICK
The word "double click" is derived from the combination of the words "double" and "click".
- "Double" originates from the Old French word "doble" meaning "twofold" or "double", which is itself derived from the Latin word "duplus" meaning "twofold". It has the notion of double or twofold action.
- "Click" is an onomatopoeic word created to mimic the sound produced when pressing or releasing the button on a mouse or any similar mechanism.
The term "double click" was coined with the rise of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and the introduction of computer mouse devices. It refers to the action of pressing and releasing a mouse button twice in quick succession, which triggers a specific function or command on the computer.
