class

The class global attribute is a space-separated list of the case-sensitive classes of the element. Classes allow CSS and Javascript to select and access specific elements via the class selectors or functions like the DOM method document.getElementsByClassName.

Though the specification doesn't put requirements on the name of classes, web developers are encouraged to use names that describe the semantic purpose of the element, rather than the presentation of the element. For example, attribute to describe an attribute rather than italics, although an element of this class may be presented by italics. Semantic names remain logical even if the presentation of the page changes.

Specifications

Specification Status Comment
HTML Living Standard
The definition of 'class' in that specification.
Living Standard No change from latest snapshot, HTML 5.1
HTML 5.1
The definition of 'class' in that specification.
Recommendation Snapshot of HTML Living Standard, no change from HTML5
HTML5
The definition of 'class' in that specification.
Recommendation Snapshot of HTML Living Standard. From HTML 4.01 Specification, class is now a true global attribute.
HTML 4.01 Specification
The definition of 'class' in that specification.
Recommendation Supported on all elements but <base>, <basefont>, <head>, <html>, <meta>, <param>, <script>, <style>, and <title>.

Browser compatibility

DesktopMobile
ChromeEdgeFirefoxInternet ExplorerOperaSafariAndroid webviewChrome for AndroidFirefox for AndroidOpera for AndroidSafari on iOSSamsung Internet
classChrome Full support YesEdge Full support 12Firefox Full support 32IE Full support YesOpera Full support YesSafari Full support YesWebView Android Full support YesChrome Android Full support YesFirefox Android Full support 32Opera Android Full support YesSafari iOS Full support YesSamsung Internet Android Full support Yes

Legend

Full support
Full support

See also