UI Components

Popup

Popup is an everyday word for a temporary thing that appears over or near the current page.

Also called Pop-upOverlayPop-up messageLittle window

Visual Example

Open
Temporary message

Plain Definition

Use popup as a starting word, then clarify the behavior.

Ask whether it blocks the page, appears near a control, opens a menu, or simply shows a short message.

You Might Describe This As...

  • "popup bubble"
  • "thing that appears on top of the page"
  • "small window that pops up"
  • "temporary overlay message"

Fast lookup

You May Also Mean

Popup is broad language. If the page must pause until someone answers, you probably mean modal; if it is a brief helper note, you probably mean tooltip.

Modal

Check the name, visual cue, and typical use.

Tooltip

Check the name, visual cue, and typical use.

Modal vs Popup

See the practical difference side by side.

What It Is Used For

  • Informal requests for modals, tooltips, menus, or temporary messages
  • Early discussion before the exact pattern is known

Example User Phrasing

  • "Show a popup when someone clicks this."
  • "Add a pop-up message over the page."