The transform-origin property in CSS changes the pivot point for transformations. By default, transforms like rotate or scale are applied from the center of an element, but transform-origin allows you to adjust this point. For example, you can rotate from the top-left corner or scale from the bottom edge. The syntax is transform-origin: x-axis y-axis;, using keywords like top, left, or values like percentages. Practical uses include rotating icons from a corner, scaling from one side, and creating realistic animations like a door opening. Tips include combining with transition for smooth effects, testing visually, and understanding that it only affects the behavior of the actual transformation, not the element itself.
The transform-origin
property in CSS lets you change the point around which a transform is applied. By default, transforms like rotate or scale happen from the center of an element. But if you want something like rotating from the top-left corner or scaling from the bottom edge, that’s where transform-origin
comes in handy.

Here are some practical ways to use it:
Understanding the Syntax
The basic syntax looks like this:

transform-origin: x-axis y-axis;
You can use keywords like left
, right
, top
, bottom
, and center
, or specific values like percentages or pixels.
For example:

transform-origin: top left; transform-origin: 50% 75%; transform-origin: center bottom;
This tells the browser where the pivot point should be for any transformation applied to the element.
Common Use Cases
Here are a few situations where changing the transform origin makes a real difference:
- Rotating icons from one corner: Like making a settings icon spin around its top-left.
- Scaling elements from one side: Think of a menu sliding in from the left by scaling only that edge.
- Creating realistic animations: For example, a door opening effect that rotates around one edge.
Each of these effects would look off if the transform happened from the center instead.
Tips for Using transform-origin
- Combine with
transition
for smooth animation effects. - Test visually – sometimes trial and error helps find the perfect pivot point.
- Be aware that 3D transforms can also use a third value (z-axis), though it's less common in typical web layouts.
Also, remember that setting transform-origin
doesn't apply a visible change on its own — it only affects how the actual transformation behaves.
It’s not complicated once you get used to how positioning works with it. Just keep in mind that small adjustments can make a big visual impact.
The above is the detailed content of How to use the CSS `transform-origin` property?. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!

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