References

Beginner-friendly references for web development, with live, editable examples.

The HTML <dd> tag

Element All modern browsers Updated
Quick answer

The HTML <dd> element provides the description, definition or value for the preceding <dt> term in a description list (<dl>).

Overview

The <dd> (description details) element holds the description for the term in the preceding <dt>, inside a <dl>. It is indented from the term by default.

A single term can have several <dd> elements — useful when a word has multiple meanings or a key has multiple values — and each <dd> can contain any flow content, including paragraphs, lists and links. Restyle the default indent with the CSS margin property as needed.

Syntax

<dl>
  <dt>Tea</dt>
  <dd>A hot beverage made from leaves.</dd>
</dl>

Example

Live example 
<dl>
  <dt>Banana</dt>
  <dd>A long yellow fruit.</dd>
  <dd>Rich in potassium.</dd>
</dl>

Best practices

  • Use <dd> for the description following its <dt> term.
  • Add several <dd> elements when a term has multiple values or meanings.
  • Put rich content (paragraphs, lists, links) inside a <dd> when needed.
  • Restyle the default indentation with the CSS margin property.

Frequently asked questions

What is the dd element?
The description for the term in the preceding <dt>, inside a <dl>.
Can a term have multiple dd elements?
Yes. A term can be followed by several <dd> descriptions for multiple meanings or values.
What can go inside a dd?
Any flow content — paragraphs, lists, links and more.
How do I remove the default indentation of dd?
Set margin-left: 0 on the <dd> with CSS.
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