States & Feedback

Loading State

A loading state shows that content or an action is still in progress.

Also called LoadingPending stateSkeleton stateWaiting screenLoading placeholder

Visual Example

Plain Definition

Loading states keep the interface from feeling broken while work is still happening.

You Might Describe This As...

  • "Waiting screen"
  • "Loading placeholder"

Fast lookup

You May Also Mean

Loading State is often mixed up with Progress Indicator because the patterns can organize or reveal similar content in different ways.

Progress Indicator

Check the name, visual cue, and typical use.

What It Is Used For

  • Fetching data
  • Submitting a form
  • Preparing a page before content appears

Example User Phrasing

  • "Show a loading state while the dashboard loads."
  • "Use skeleton rows before the table data appears."