# toggle

/ˈtɑɡəɫ/ (US) · /tˈɒɡəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/toggle
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. to switch between two states

verb · CEFR B2

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

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

- You can toggle between the two views by clicking the icon in the corner.
- 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. a switch or setting

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- Check the settings menu to find the toggle for dark mode.
- The developer added a simple toggle to the preferences pane, enabling users to disable notifications with a single click.

### 3. a type of button

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- His winter coat had wooden toggles instead of plastic buttons.
- The traditional duffel coat is distinguished by its rope loops and horn toggles, which were originally designed to be easily fastened while wearing gloves.

### 4. nautical pin

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

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

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

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

## Examples

- You can toggle the subtitles on and off.
- The software allows users to toggle between a light and dark interface depending on their preference.
- Advanced users often prefer keyboard shortcuts to toggle specific layers in the design software, as it significantly speeds up their creative workflow.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.