Navigation / The visual dictionary

Dock.

A system-level strip of app shortcuts and currently running apps.

Also calledapp docklauncher dock

See it in context

UI illustration

What it is

A system-level strip of app shortcuts and currently running apps. Use recognizable app icons, indicate running state where the platform does, and keep the dock distinct from app content.

When to use it

Use the term when describing the operating system's app-launching surface.

Know the difference

A dock switches or launches apps; a tab bar changes sections within one app.

Across platforms

WebmacOSWindowsLinux

Web · macOS · Windows · Linux

macOS has the Dock; other desktop environments provide taskbars or docks with their own pinning behavior.

Go to the source

Primary documentation for the pattern and its platform conventions.

Material Design — Understanding navigation

FROM NAME TO NEXT BUILD

Put it into words.

Choose a device and an effect, then copy the whole description.

Building forAnimation effectBrowse the effect library

Create a dock. Use recognizable app icons, indicate running state where the platform does, and keep the dock distinct from app content. Use the term when describing the operating system's app-launching surface. Make it responsive and accessible, and follow the selected platform's interaction conventions.

Your copied description includes the component, device context, and selected animation timing.

See it in context

What it is

When to use it

Know the difference

Across platforms

Web · macOS · Windows · Linux

Go to the source

You might also mean…

App switcher

Menu bar

Jump list