Academy / Advanced Level: HTML and CSS

CSS Variables (Custom Properties)

What Are CSS Variables?

CSS Variables are defined using the -- prefix, followed by the name of the variable. These variables are then accessed using the var() function.

Defining Variables:

Variables are usually defined within a selector, often within the :root selector for global scope, but you can define them in any context (local scope).

:root {
  --primary-color: #3498db;
  --secondary-color: #2ecc71;
  --font-size: 16px;
  --padding: 20px;
}

Using Variables:

You can reference and use these variables in any property by using the var() function.

body {
  background-color: var(--primary-color);
  font-size: var(--font-size);
  padding: var(--padding);
}

h1 {
  color: var(--secondary-color);
}

In this example, the variables --primary-color, --secondary-color, --font-size, and --padding are used throughout the stylesheet, allowing easy maintenance and consistent styling.