Definition

1. Noun:
   • A movable indicator on a computer screen: A "cursor" is a small, movable symbol (often a blinking line, arrow, or highlighted block) on a visual display. Its position shows where the next action, such as typing text or selecting an item, will take place.

Usage

• The primary function of a cursor is to point to and interact with elements on a computer screen. You control it with a pointing device like a mouse, touchpad, or keyboard arrows.
• It is a fundamental user interface element in graphical and text-based computing environments.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Move the cursor to the top of the document and click.
  • The text insertion cursor was blinking steadily in the empty field.
  • Her mouse cursor changed from an arrow to a hand icon when she hovered over the link.

Advanced Usage

• "Cursor position": The specific location of the cursor on the screen, often given in pixel or character coordinates.
  • The software saves the cursor position when you close the file.
• "Cursor control": The ability to manipulate the cursor's movement.
  • Good cursor control is essential for graphic design.

Variants and Related Words

• Caret (n): A cursor shaped like a small, blinking vertical or horizontal line, used specifically to indicate the insertion point for text.
  • The caret showed where the new word would appear.
• Pointer (n): Often used synonymously with "cursor," especially when it is an arrow-shaped icon controlled by a mouse.
  • The mouse pointer moved across the screen.

Synonyms

• Indicator: A general term for something that shows position or state.
• Marker: Something used to show a position.

Related Phrases

• "To follow the cursor": For an on-screen element to move in tandem with the cursor's position.
  • The drawing tool followed the cursor precisely.
• "Cursor over" / "Hover the cursor over": To position the cursor on top of an item without clicking.
  • Hover the cursor over the button to see the tooltip.

Noun

1. (computer science) indicator consisting of a movable spot of light (an icon) on a visual display; moving it allows the user to point to commands or screen positions