Hover

When you roll the cursor over a link on a Web page, it is often referred to as "hovering" over the link. This is somewhat like when your boss hovers over you at work, but not nearly as uncomfortable. In most cases, the cursor will change from a pointer to a small hand when it is hovering over a link. Web developers can also use cascading style sheets (CSS) to modify the color and style of link when a user hovers over it. For example, the link may become underlined or change color while the cursor is hovering over it.

The term hovering implies your computer screen is a three-dimensional space. In this conception, your cursor moves around on a layer above the text and images. When you click the mouse button while the cursor is hovering over a link, it presses down on the link to activate it. Hovering can also be used in a more general sense such as moving the cursor over icons, windows, or other objects on the screen.

Updated in 2006 by Per C.

quizTest Your Knowledge

40 Mbps is how many Kbps?

A
400
0%
B
4,000
0%
C
40,000
0%
D
400,000
0%
Correct! Incorrect!     View the Kbps definition.
More Quizzes →

The Tech Terms Computer Dictionary

The definition of Hover on this page is an original definition written by the TechTerms.com team. If you would like to reference this page or cite this definition, please use the green citation links above.

The goal of TechTerms.com is to explain computer terminology in a way that is easy to understand. We strive for simplicity and accuracy with every definition we publish. If you have feedback about this definition or would like to suggest a new technical term, please contact us.

Sign up for the free TechTerms Newsletter

How often would you like to receive an email?

You can unsubscribe or change your frequency setting at any time using the links available in each email.

Questions? Please contact us.