The dt element is a part of the dl, dt, dd triumvirate of elements used to create a definition list in a document. The entire list is bracketed by the dl element's tags. Each definition term is denoted by a leading dt element tag, and the definition for the term is denoted by a leading dd element tag. A schematic of a definition list sequence for three items looks like the following:

A dt element is an inline element, whereas a dd element can contain block-level content, including bordered text, images, and other objects. End tags are optional in HTML for both dt and dd elements because the next start tag automatically signals the end of the preceding element. The entire list, however, must close with an end tag for the encapsulating dl element.

Although the HTML specification forces no particular way of rendering a definition list, Navigator and Internet Explorer are in agreement in left-aligning a dt element and indenting any dd element that follows it. No special font formatting or visual elements are added by the browser, but you are free (if not encouraged) to assign styles as you like. If you want to stack multiple terms and/or definitions, you can place multiple dt and/or dd elements right after each other in the source code.

Because HTML is being geared toward context-sensitive tagging, avoid using definition lists strictly as a formatting trick (to get some indented text). Use style sheets and adjustable margin settings to accomplish formatting.

In Navigator 4, any styles assigned to dt and dd elements by way of the class, id, or style attribute do not work. If you wish to assign the same style attributes to both the dt and dd elements, assign the style to the dl element; otherwise, wrap each dt and dd element with a span element whose styles the nested dt and dd elements inherit. This workaround is observed in IE 4, although it is not necessary for IE 4-only documents.

The language being used for the element's attribute values and content. A browser can use this information to assist in proper rendering of content with respect to details such as treatment of ligatures (when supported by a particular font or required by a written language), quotation marks, and hyphenation. Other applications and search engines might use this information to aid the selection of spell-checking dictionaries and the creation of indices.