toolbar

[ tool-bahr ]

noun

, Computers.

1. a row or rows of buttons on a display screen that are clicked on to select various functions in a software application or web browser.

toolbar

/ ˈtuːlˌbɑː /

noun

1. a horizontal row or vertical column of selectable buttons displayed on a computer screen, allowing the user to select a variety of functions

Word History and Origins

Origin of toolbar¹

First recorded in 1960–65; tool + bar ¹

Example Sentences

If you want to look up a word in the dictionary or on Wikipedia, translate a phrase, highlight a passage, make a note or search the book, press and hold your finger on the screen over the text until a toolbar pops up with reference and annotation options.

From New York Times

Steps vary based on the app and device, but tapping the top of the screen usually reveals a toolbar where you can adjust the typeface, font size, line spacing and background color of your e-book.

From New York Times

Now, the app also has a “shop” tab on the bottom toolbar.

From Washington Post

If you don’t, go to Settings > Appearance, and scroll down to the Customize toolbar section, where there’s a “Show sidebar” toggle.

From The Verge

In iOS, you can scan a document or receipt in the Notes app by making a new note, pressing the camera icon on the toolbar and selecting Scan Documents.

From New York Times