WordGarden.iosidebar
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈaɪdbɑː/
US
- /ˈsaɪdˌbɑr/
Meanings
Noun
a vertical panel at the side of a website, app, or screen that holds navigation, tools, or related information
a brief side discussion or digression from the main topic
a short supplementary article, note, or information box presented beside a main story or text
Beyond the definition
A "sidebar" is not always just about the side of something. It first referred to a section next to a newspaper story that gave extra information, such as quick facts, a short profile, or a related note. Now, the term is also used for any extra content shown next to the main thing.
You might see one on a website with links to related articles, or in a software program with tools and options next to your main work area. Think of it as a helpful extra: not the main focus, but often useful. In a legal setting, a "sidebar" is also a private discussion between the judge and lawyers that happens out of earshot of the jury.
The word "sidebar" originally comes from newspaper layout—those columns on the side of a page that offer information related to the main article. These weren't part of the story itself, but they added context, background details, or interesting asides. Think of it like a little extra window into the topic at hand. For example, "The article about local farmers included a sidebar detailing the history of agriculture in the region."
Today, "sidebar" has expanded far beyond print media. In web design and software applications, a sidebar is a vertical section that runs along one side of the screen, providing access to navigation menus, tools, or related content. If you use Facebook or a modern email app, the column where you find your folders or friends list is a classic sidebar.
The term is also used to describe a kind of private communication. In legal contexts, a "sidebar" refers to a private conversation between the judge and lawyers outside the hearing of the jury, often to discuss a point of law or procedure. This has also spread into general business culture; during a meeting, someone might suggest a "sidebar" to discuss a small topic privately so they do not distract the rest of the group.
So, whether it's extra information on a page, a navigation panel on your screen, or a private chat, a sidebar is always something alongside the main event—providing support, context, or additional options. It's that helpful companion you didn't know you needed!
Examples
- 1
Website layout
I found the settings menu in the left sidebar of the website.
- 2
App navigation
The app lets you pin your favorite folders to the sidebar.
- 3
Article feature
The article included a sidebar with advice for first-time travelers.
- 4
Side discussion
We got into a long sidebar about office politics and never came back to the main issue.
- Patternget into a sidebar about + topic
start a side discussion about it
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Legal procedure
During the trial, the lawyers asked to speak to the judge at sidebar.
- Domainat sidebar
in a private discussion with the judge, usually out of the jury's hearing
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- sidebarnoun
Forms
- sidebarspluralnoun