Side panel: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'side panel' when referring to a vertical section of an interface or piece of equipment that is used to display additional information or controls. It is often found in software applications and pieces of electronic equipment.

• Click on the side panel to access more settings.
• The side panel of the computer case can be removed for easy access to internal components.

Use 'side menu' in the context of a navigation element in websites or applications that usually appears on the left or right side of the screen, and lists options or links users can click on to navigate to different sections.

• The side menu contains quick links to different sections of the website.
• You can find user settings in the side menu.

Commonly used in general contexts to describe any side part of an object, particularly vehicles or electronics.

• The side panel of the computer case has a glass window
• The car's side panel needs repainting after the scratch

Refers specifically to the section of a vehicle's body that is located at the rear, between the back door and the taillight.

• The mechanic repaired the dented quarter panel
• The car's rear quarter panel was damaged in the accident

Primarily used in American English to refer to the part of a vehicle that surrounds the wheel and keeps debris like rocks or mud from being thrown into the air.

• He replaced the front fender after the collision
• The fender protects the car's wheels from road debris