English Reference
verb · noun

toggle

v. · n.
US /ˈtɑɡəɫ/ UK /tˈɒɡəl/ tog·gle UK spelling toggled, toggles, toggling

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Computing

    v.to switch back and forth between two different settings or options, especially on a computer.

    v.to alternate between two discrete states or settings, typically by using a single command or interface element.

    Simple

    You can toggle between the two views by clicking the icon in the corner.

    In context

    The software allows users to toggle between a simplified interface for beginners and a comprehensive dashboard for advanced administrators.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'between'.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Computing

    n.a button or switch on a screen that has only two positions, like 'on' and 'off'.

    n.a digital or physical switch that alternates between two fixed states each time it is activated.

    Simple

    Check the settings menu to find the toggle for dark mode.

    In context

    The developer added a simple toggle to the preferences pane, enabling users to disable notifications with a single click.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a small, rod-shaped button that you push through a loop to fasten a coat.

    n.a crosspiece or rod-shaped button attached to a garment, designed to be secured through a loop rather than a buttonhole.

    Simple

    His winter coat had wooden toggles instead of plastic buttons.

    In context

    The traditional duffel coat is distinguished by its rope loops and horn toggles, which were originally designed to be easily fastened while wearing gloves.

    fastenerbutton
  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    n.a small piece of wood or metal used to join ropes or chains together.

    n.a pin or short rod fixed transversely in the eye of a rope to secure it to another loop or ring.

    Simple

    The sailor used a wooden toggle to secure the line to the boat.

    In context

    The safety procedure requires the sea painter to be secured to the lifeboat using a heavy-duty steel toggle to ensure a quick release if necessary.

    pincrosspiece

Some users have since said despite toggling off the option, they have then returned to the settings to find the feature turned on again.

BBC News· 13 Aug 2026

Using it as a flashlight toggle is nifty, for example.

Ars Technica· 4 Sept 2026

Of uncertain origin. Possible alteration of tug (“to pull”) + -le

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated