What exactly is the z-index and how is it typically utilized in web development?

I am new to web design and I'm trying to figure out how the z-index property works and what it is utilized for. Currently, I am working on positioning a drop-down menu and have read that the z-index can be helpful in such scenarios. Any assistance or explanation would be greatly appreciated!

Answer №1

One valuable resource for understanding z-index is the documentation:

The z-index property determines the stacking order of elements and their children. When elements overlap, the z-index decides which element appears on top. Typically, an element with a higher z-index will cover one with a lower z-index.

In the case of a positioned box, the z-index property defines:

  • The position of the box in the current stacking context.

  • Whether the box creates a local stacking context.

Illustrative example:

.dashed-box {
  position: relative;
  z-index: 1;
  border: dashed;
  height: 8em;
  margin-bottom: 1em;
  margin-top: 2em;
}
.gold-box {
  position: absolute;
  z-index: 3;
  /* .gold-box overlaps .green-box and .dashed-box */
  background: gold;
  width: 80%;
  left: 60px;
  top: 3em;
}
.green-box {
  position: absolute;
  z-index: 2;
  /* .green-box overlaps .dashed-box */
  background: lightgreen;
  width: 20%;
  left: 20em;
  top: -25px;
  height: 7em;
  opacity: 0.9;
}
<div class="dashed-box">Dashed box
  <span class="gold-box">Gold box</span>
  <span class="green-box">Green box</span>
</div>

Learn more about z-index here

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