Section 5 · Visual Language

Padding

Definition

The space inside an element, between its content and its own edge or boundary.

Why it matters

Padding affects legibility and comfort at the level of an individual element — a button or text box with no padding feels cramped even when the surrounding layout is generous.

Example

Adding 16 px of padding inside a button so its label doesn’t touch the edge.

See also

Auto Layout (Section 9), where padding becomes a live, adjustable property.