Writing Accessible Menu Item Labels
Writing Accessible Menu Item Labels records a distinct W3C-supported interface-content task while keeping implementation mechanics outside the writing guidance.
Use concise action or destination text for each menu item; when following the documented convention, an ellipsis can signal that choosing the item opens a dialog for more input.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
This page covers the wording that supplies menuitem names; menu-container labels and keyboard behavior are separate concerns.
Further guidance
Content
Write menu-item text so each command or destination is distinguishable within the menu.
Purpose
Clear wording helps assistive-technology users understand the component or content in context without relying on implementation details.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Menu and Menubar Pattern — WAI-ARIA Authoring Practices Guide (opens in a new tab)World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) · W3C APG guidance for accessible naming of menubars and their purpose.