animatable

Animatable is an adjective used in computer graphics and user interface design to describe an object, property, or parameter that can be smoothly changed over time by an animation. When something is animatable, its value can be interpolated from a start state to an end state according to a timing function or easing curve.

In web development and software frameworks, animatable properties are those that can be transitioned or animated by the system. This usually involves interpolation between numeric values, colors, or other interpolable types. Not all properties are animatable; some properties change discretely or are not defined in a way that supports smooth interpolation. For example, in CSS, properties that cannot be smoothly interpolated or transitioned may not respond to animation.

Common techniques for animating animatable properties include keyframes and tweening, CSS transitions, and framework-specific animation APIs. The approach chosen often depends on the platform and performance considerations, as well as the desired control over timing, easing, and sequencing of effects.

In specific programming environments, the concept of animatable data is formalized. For instance, SwiftUI provides an Animatable protocol that describes how a view can respond to animated changes, typically via an AnimatableData value used to interpolate shapes or other properties. Other ecosystems similarly define constructs that enable smooth interpolation and coordinated motion across UI elements.

Overall, animatable properties are central to creating fluid, responsive user interfaces and visually engaging graphics, by enabling controlled and perceptible transitions between states.