The spelling of the word "tooltip" is phonetically transcribed as /ˈtu:lˌtɪp/. The initial "t" is pronounced as a voiceless alveolar plosive, followed by a long "u" sound /u:/, and a light "l" /l/ sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound /ɪ/ and a soft "p" sound /p/. The stress falls on the first syllable, making it "too-lip". A tooltip is a graphical element that appears when a user hovers or clicks on an item, providing additional information or instructions.
A tooltip is a small, contextual pop-up box or message that appears when a user hovers their cursor over an element on a graphical user interface (GUI), such as a button, icon, or link. The purpose of a tooltip is to provide additional information or explanation about the function or purpose of the element being hovered over.
Typically, tooltips appear as a small rectangular box that contains a concise text message, often consisting of a few words or a short sentence. They are displayed in close proximity to the element being hovered over, usually just above or below it. Tooltips are commonly used in computer software applications, websites, and other digital interfaces to enhance user experience and provide helpful hints or explanations.
Tool tips can serve various purposes, including indicating the name or label of an element, describing its intended function or action, providing instructions or usage tips, or displaying additional details or metadata. They can be helpful for users who are unfamiliar with the interface or specific elements, allowing them to quickly grasp the purpose or meaning without needing to navigate elsewhere. Tooltips generally appear and disappear automatically based on user actions, such as mouse movement, and are designed to be brief, unobtrusive, and easily dismissible.
The term "tooltip" is a combination of two words: "tip" and "tool".
The word "tip" originated in the 18th century, deriving from the Dutch word "tip" meaning "point" or "end". It was initially used to refer to the end of something, such as the pointed or tapered end of a tool or instrument. Over time, "tip" came to be associated with a small piece of practical advice or information that is helpful or suggestive.
The word "tool" has its roots in Old English, coming from the Proto-Germanic word "*tōną" meaning "prepare, make". It was generally used to describe any device or instrument used in a specific purpose or function.
Combining these two words, "tooltip" was coined to represent a small piece of information or advice that appears when hovering over or clicking on an object or tool in a user interface.