space-bar: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical, Everyday (in computing context)
Quick answer
What does “space-bar” mean?
The long, horizontal key on a keyboard used to insert a space between words or other elements.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The long, horizontal key on a keyboard used to insert a space between words or other elements.
Informally, the action of pressing this key, or a metaphorical reference to creating separation or pause in non-computing contexts (e.g., in music or conversation).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Spelling: 'space-bar' (more common in UK) vs. 'spacebar' (more common in US).
Connotations
Neutral in both varieties; purely functional.
Frequency
Equally frequent in both varieties within computing/typing contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “space-bar” in a Sentence
press + [the] + space-barthe space-bar + is/are + adjectiveVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, unless in IT procurement or office equipment descriptions.
Academic
Used in computer science, human-computer interaction, or typing tutorials.
Everyday
Common when discussing typing, computers, or gaming.
Technical
Standard term in keyboard specifications, hardware manuals, and software documentation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “space-bar”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “space-bar”
- Using 'space' alone to refer to the key (e.g., 'Press the space' instead of 'Press the space-bar').
- Incorrect hyphenation: 'spacebar' without a hyphen is acceptable, but 'space bar' as two separate words is less standard.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It can be written as a hyphenated compound ('space-bar') or as one word ('spacebar'). Both are correct, though the hyphenated form is more traditional.
No, it is a noun. The action is described as 'pressing the space-bar' or 'hitting the space-bar'.
Its size and central location make it the most frequently used key, easily accessible by either thumb.
Yes, mechanical keyboards often have customizable space-bars that vary in size, weight, and actuation force.
The long, horizontal key on a keyboard used to insert a space between words or other elements.
Space-bar is usually technical, everyday (in computing context) in register.
Space-bar: in British English it is pronounced /ˈspeɪs ˌbɑː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈspeɪs ˌbɑːr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to give someone some space-bar (playful, non-standard): to allow a pause or break in conversation.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'bar' you press to create 'space' between words, like a spacer in a typesetting tray.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE SPACE-BAR IS A TOOL FOR SEPARATION/CREATING GAPS.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of the space-bar?