Digital Accessibility Glossary

Hi and welcome to the Digital Accessibility Glossary!

If you've ever pondered terms like "ARIA," "Tabindex," "Contrast Ratio," or "Screen Reader Compatibility," you've come to the right place. Because: Accessibility is full of technical terms, abbreviations, and standards – and many of them are far from self-explanatory.

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This glossary is aimed at everyone involved in digital accessibility – whether beginners or experienced developers. All terms are clearly explained, assuming no prior knowledge.

I created this section to offer you a central location where you can quickly and reliably look up the most important terms, concepts, and abbreviations – using clear language, practical examples, and, where necessary, further links.

Why This Section Exists

In our work, I constantly see projects stall – not because the technology is missing, but because all stakeholders have different ideas about what "accessible" actually means. Terms are confused, standards are misunderstood, or requirements are not properly classified.

However, a shared understanding is the foundation of every successful project. This glossary is here precisely for that purpose: as a linguistic foundation for teams, customers, and stakeholders.

I refer to this glossary on every page of the entire Accessibility Hub – ensuring you always have quick access to the definitions when you need them.

What to Expect in This Section

Here you will find the most important terms from the following areas:

• Technology (e.g., ARIA, HTML semantics, Tabindex)
• Design (e.g., Contrast, Visual Hierarchy)
• Assistive Tools (e.g., Screen readers, Keyboard Navigation)
• Types of Disabilities (e.g., Visual impairment, Motor limitations)

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All terms are explained with examples. Where appropriate, you will also receive code snippets, visual examples, or tool tips for better context.

The entries are written so that you can also use them in training sessions, pitches, or customer presentations – for example, as a reference guide or an aid to argumentation.

Who This Section Is Particularly Important For

The glossary is intended for everyone who not only has to implement digital accessibility but also communicate it:

• Developers and Designers
• Project Managers and Product Owners
• Agencies and Freelancers
• Accessibility Officers and Consultants
• Content Teams and Marketing

If you work in one of these areas, this glossary is your central vocabulary base – without buzzwords, without clichés, but with substance.

What You Should Do Next

Use the glossary like a lexicon:

• Look up terms specifically if you stumble across one.
• Use the links to related terms to better understand topics.
• Save it as a reference guide – e.g., for kickoffs, team training, or customer meetings.

In the end, you will understand the language of digital accessibility – and be able to work, explain, and argue with greater confidence.