Glossary · Websites and content systems
HTML
The markup language that gives a web page its content structure and meaning.
Also called: HyperText Markup Language
Definition
HTML identifies headings, paragraphs, links, forms, images, navigation, and other page structures. CSS controls presentation and JavaScript can add behavior, but browsers and assistive technologies first rely on the document's HTML semantics.
Why it matters
Clear semantic structure improves resilience, accessibility, search interpretation, and maintainability.
Common misunderstanding
HTML is not the whole website and is not a visual design format by itself.
Related terms
Related system family: Websites & Publishing
Sources
- HTML: HyperText Markup Language (opens in a new tab) · MDN Web Docs
Last reviewed July 16, 2026