A menu button refers to a graphical user interface (GUI) element typically found in software applications, websites, or electronic devices. It is a clickable icon or text that when activated, displays a list of options or actions available to the user.
Functioning as a gateway to various features or settings, the menu button is often represented by a three-line symbol called a "hamburger icon." This symbol is universally recognized and is used to indicate the presence of hidden menus in a user interface. When the menu button is clicked or tapped, it reveals a dropdown or overlay panel, allowing users to navigate through different sections, access functions, or configure settings according to their needs.
The menu button serves as a means for organizing complex or extensive content, making it more manageable and accessible. It helps users discover and utilize the diverse functionalities of an application or website without overwhelming them with a cluttered interface. By storing less frequently used or secondary options under the menu, the main interface retains a clean and minimalist design, enhancing user experience.
Although most commonly associated with digital platforms, the concept of a menu button can also be found in physical devices such as remote controls, gaming consoles, or smartwatches. In these cases, the button may be labeled as "menu" or represented by a corresponding icon, allowing users to navigate menus and access different functions or settings specific to the device's functionalities.
The term "menu button" originated from the word "menu" and "button".
The word "menu" comes from the French language, where it initially referred to a detailed list of dishes served in a meal. It was derived from the Latin word "minutus", meaning small or minute, as these menus often included many small dishes. The concept of a menu later expanded beyond food to refer to a list of options or choices available in various contexts.
The term "button" refers to a small object or control that can be pressed or operated, usually triggering an action. It comes from the Old French word "bouton", meaning bud or knob, which in turn was derived from the Latin word "botellus", meaning small container or vessel.