How to create a description list for terms and definitions in HTML
Aug 01, 2025 am 04:29 AMTo create a description list of terms and definitions, use
- ,
- and <dd> elements; 1. Use
- tag the term, and <dd> to provide definitions; 2. Use multiple
- for a definition, or provide multiple <dd> for a term to indicate different meanings; 3. Enhance readability through CSS, such as bold terminology, adjust indentation; 4. Avoid using description lists for layout, ensure correct semantics to improve accessibility and SEO effects, and ultimately achieve clear and standard-compliant structured content.
Multiple terms, one definition:
<dl> <dt>HTML</dt> <dt>HyperText Markup Language</dt> <dd>The standard language for creating web pages.</dd> </dl>
One term, multiple definitions (eg, different meanings):
<dl> <dt>JavaScript</dt> <dd>A programming language commonly used in web development.</dd> <dd>A scripting language that runs in the browser.</dd> </dl>
- Avoid using paragraphs (
<p></p>
) inside<dd></dd>
unless necessary —<dd></dd>
can contain block-level elements, so it's fine for longer explanations. - Don't use description lists for layout purposes — they're meant for meaningful term-definition relationships.
- as a list container,
To create a description list for terms and definitions in HTML, use the <dl></dl>
element along with <dt></dt>
(for terms) and <dd></dd>
(for definitions). This structure is semantic, accessible, and designed specifically for key-value pairs like glossaries, metadata, or FAQ content.

Use the <dl></dl>
, <dt></dt>
, and <dd></dd>
elements
The <dl></dl>
element acts as a container for the entire list. Each term is marked up with <dt></dt>
, and its corresponding definition goes inside a <dd></dd>
that follows.
Basic syntax:

<dl> <dt>Term 1</dt> <dd>Definition of Term 1.</dd> <dt>Term 2</dt> <dd>Definition of Term 2.</dd> </dl>
This will display each term followed by its definition, properly structured for screen readers and search engines.
Handle multiple terms and definitions
You can have multiple terms referring to the same definition, or multiple definitions for a single term.

Examples:
Style and accessibility tips
While the structure is semantic by default, you can enhance readability with CSS. Browsers usually render <dd>
with indentation, but you can customize spacing or alignment.
Example CSS:
dl { margin-bottom: 20px; } dt { font-weight: bold; margin-top: 10px; } dd { margin-left: 20px; margin-bottom: 10px; }
Also:
Basically, just stick to <dl></dl>
, <dt></dt>
, and <dd></dd>
with clear labeling, and you'll have a clean, accessible definition list.
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