cursorlike

Cursorlike is an adjective used to describe objects, icons, or behaviors that resemble a computer cursor or text insertion point. In user interface design and human-computer interaction, cursorlike elements may imitate the appearance or function of the cursor, such as a vertical caret in text fields, an arrow pointer, or animated guides that indicate where input will occur. The term helps distinguish features that visually or functionally imitate cursors from those that operate as independent controls or decorative graphics.

Etymology and usage notes: the word is formed from cursor plus the suffix -like. The term “cursor” itself originates from Latin cursor meaning runner or beacon, and in computing it denotes the movable indicator on a display. Cursorlike expressions are common in design documentation, accessibility guidelines, and discussions of interaction patterns where a reference point or input focus is important.

Contexts and examples: cursorlike cues are often described in style guides to communicate expected user behavior, such as where text insertion will happen or how focus moves through a interface. They may also appear in tutorials, demos, or animations that simulate cursor motion to illustrate concepts without requiring active input. In typography or graphic design, certain glyphs or icons may be labeled cursorlike if their silhouette resembles a text cursor or pointer.

See also: cursor, caret, insertion point, pointer, focus indicator, user interface design.