Definition

Noun: A computer menu is a list of options or commands presented to a user on a computer screen. The user can select an item from this list to perform a specific action, such as opening a program, changing a setting, or executing a command. It is a fundamental element of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) that helps users navigate software and operating systems without needing to remember complex commands.

Usage

Computer menus organize functions into a clear, hierarchical structure. They are typically accessed by clicking on a word (like "File" or "Edit") in a menu bar, which then reveals a drop-down list of choices.

Examples

• Noun:
  • To save your document, go to the File menu and select "Save".
  • The program's settings are all accessible from the main computer menu.
  • A context menu appears when you right-click on an item.

Advanced Usage

• "to navigate a menu": to move through and explore the options in a menu.
  • New users must learn how to navigate the menu to find the tools they need.
• "drop-down menu": a specific type of menu that appears below a selected item.
  • Select your country from the drop-down menu.
• "context menu" (or "right-click menu"): a menu that appears in response to a user's action, such as right-clicking on an object, offering options relevant to that specific context.
  • The context menu allows you to copy, paste, or delete the selected text.

Variants and Related Words

• Menu bar (n): The horizontal bar, often at the top of a window, that contains the names of the main menus (e.g., File, Edit, View).
  • The menu bar contains all the primary commands for the application.
• Submenu (n): A secondary menu that appears when you select an item in a primary menu.
  • Hover over "View" to open a submenu with more specific options.

Synonyms

• List of options: A general term for a set of choices.
• Command list: Emphasizes that the items are executable commands.

Related Phrases

• To pull down a menu: To open a menu, typically a drop-down menu, by clicking on it.
  • Pull down the Edit menu to find the copy command.
• Menu-driven: Describes an interface or program that is primarily controlled by selecting options from menus.
  • The software features a menu-driven interface that is easy for beginners.

Noun

1. (computer science) a list of options available to a computer user