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Selector Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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selector

[sɪˈlɛktər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

HTML

A selector is a pattern used to select HTML elements and apply styles to them.

Synonyms

element selector, identifier, pattern.

Examples of usage

  • The CSS selector .class selects all elements with the class name 'class'.
  • In jQuery, the selector $('p') selects all

    elements.

Context #2 | Noun

Software Development

A selector is a tool used to specify which elements in a document to target with a particular action or style.

Synonyms

identifier, picker, targeter.

Examples of usage

  • In JavaScript, the document.querySelector() method is used to select elements by CSS selector.
  • The :hover selector in CSS applies styles when the mouse is over an element.
Context #3 | Noun

UI/UX Design

In the context of UI/UX design, a selector may refer to a user interface element that allows the user to choose from a list of options.

Synonyms

chooser, option selector, picker.

Examples of usage

  • A dropdown selector allows the user to choose from a list of predefined options.
  • The color selector in a design tool lets the user pick a color for an element.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In web development, a selector helps define elements to style or manipulate, making user interfaces more dynamic.
  • CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) uses selectors to apply styles to specific HTML elements, enhancing the look of web pages.
  • JavaScript includes selectors for DOM (Document Object Model) elements, allowing programmers to interact with parts of a webpage.

Psychology

  • Decision-making often involves a selector process, influenced by cognitive biases that affect how choices are made.
  • The 'paradox of choice' suggests that having too many options can make it harder for a selector to make a decision.
  • Research shows that selectors are more satisfied with their choices when they have fewer alternatives.

Pop Culture

  • In music, selectors are DJs who curate sets, choosing tracks that create a specific mood or energy at events.
  • Game shows often feature selectors who decide which contestants get to advance, adding suspense to the show.
  • In movies, characters can act as selectors, making choices that determine the plot's direction, like heroes picking paths in a quest.

Literature

  • In stories, selectors can represent characters who have the power to make meaningful choices, impacting their journeys.
  • The act of selection is a common theme, reflecting the human condition and the importance of choices in one's life.
  • Popular novels often include selectors as protagonists or pivotal characters that embody the struggle between options and consequences.

Origin of 'selector'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the Latin word 'selectus,' which means 'to choose' or 'to pick out.'
  • In English, it has been used since the late 15th century to describe those who choose or make selections.
  • The prefix 'se-' in Latin implies separation, signifying that something is chosen apart from others.

The word 'selector' originated from the verb 'select', which comes from the Latin word 'selectus', meaning 'chosen'. In the context of HTML and CSS, the term 'selector' gained popularity with the rise of web development and styling languages. It has since become a fundamental concept in programming and design.

See also: select, selected, selecting, selection, selective, selectively, selectiveness, selectivity, selectwoman.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,479, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.