sidebar
UK: ˈsaɪd.bɑː | US: ˈsaɪd.bɑːr
n. a short article or box of text placed alongside a main article in a newspaper, magazine, or website, providing additional information.
n. a secondary or supplementary section of a computer interface, typically displaying navigation or tools.
n. (law) a conference between a judge and attorneys outside the jury's presence.
The word "sidebar" originates from the combination of "side" (Old English sīde, meaning "flank" or "lateral area") and "bar" (Old French barre, meaning "rod" or "obstacle"). Initially used literally for physical barriers or partitions, it evolved metaphorically in publishing (early 20th century) to describe auxiliary content placed beside main text. Later, computing adopted the term for interface elements (1980s), and legal jargon used it for private discussions (from the idea of stepping "aside"). The morphemes retain their original meanings while adapting to specialized contexts.
The magazine included a sidebar with expert opinions on the topic.
Customize your browser by adding widgets to the sidebar.
The judge called a sidebar to discuss the admissibility of evidence.
The article’s sidebar summarized key statistics for quick reference.
She glanced at the sidebar to check the event schedule.