Resizable

Resizable describes an object whose dimensions can be changed from their default or initial size. In computing, resizable components can be widened or narrowed by user actions or by code, enabling flexible layouts and content adaptation. Common examples include application windows, panels within an interface, images, canvases, and container elements in web pages.

In graphical user interfaces, resizing is typically performed via drag handles at the edges or corners. The operation may be constrained by minimum and maximum sizes, and may preserve aspect ratio or snap to a grid. Some implementations allow programmatic resizing through layout managers, APIs, or style properties.

Implementation considerations include recalculating layout after a resize to avoid overlap, triggering resize events, and redrawing content. Performance is important for smooth user experience, especially for complex layouts or large canvases. Handling fractional sizes and high-DPI scaling can improve visual fidelity.

Web environments often use CSS properties such as width, height, min-width, max-width, min-height, max-height, and the resize directive in some contexts. Many web frameworks provide resizable panes or splitters. Desktop toolkits expose resizable windows and panels with explicit APIs for constraints and event handling.

Accessibility concerns require keyboard support, such as using arrow keys or specific key combinations to resize, and appropriate ARIA roles and labels for the resizable controls.

Resizability is a fundamental aspect of responsive and adaptive design, enabling interfaces to fit different screen sizes, user preferences, and content requirements.