spacebars

The spacebar is the wide key on most keyboards used to input a space character between words. It is typically located on the bottom row at the center of the keyboard and is usually the longest key. On many desktop keyboards it sits between the left and right Alt (or Option) keys, with other modifiers such as Ctrl or Windows/Command nearby.

Variations in design and layout are common. The width of the spacebar can differ by layout; ANSI keyboards commonly use a 6.25-unit spacebar, while other layouts may vary. Some ergonomic or split keyboards feature a dual or split spacebar, allowing the space to be pressed by either thumb. On portable devices and on-screen keyboards, the spacebar is presented as a touch area and may adjust in size for easier tapping.

History and context give the spacebar its origins in typewriters, where a long lever moved the carriage to insert a space. The modern computer keyboard retained this concept as the Space key, typically labeled "Space" or represented by the symbol of a blank.

Usage and behavior vary with context. In standard text entry, pressing the spacebar inserts a space character. In software and games, it may trigger other actions such as play/pause or jumping, depending on the application. On touch devices and with assistive technologies, spacebar behavior can be customized or remapped to suit user needs.