cursor

/'kə:sə/
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cursor

The cursor hovers over the "Save" button on the computer screen.

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.
cursor

The cursor hovers over the "Save" button on the computer screen.

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