How Do You Spell SIDEBAR?
Pronunciation: [sˈa͡ɪdbɑː] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [sˈa͡ɪdbɑː] (IPA)
Sidebar is a term commonly used in journalism and publishing, referring to a supplementary section or column that accompanies a main article or content piece. It is typically positioned alongside the main text, either to the left or right side of the page, hence the term "sidebar". This additional section aims to provide related or supplementary information that might be helpful or interesting to the reader.
A sidebar can contain a variety of elements such as additional facts, data, statistics, quotes, anecdotes, charts, images, or explanations that complement the main content. It may also include summaries, bullet points, or key points to highlight important information or details within the article. The purpose of a sidebar is to provide readers with context, depth, or alternative perspectives on the main topic or story, enhancing their understanding and engagement.
In newspapers or magazines, sidebars are often used to break up lengthy articles, making them more visually appealing and easier to read. Online platforms and websites also employ sidebars to present relevant links, advertisements, or navigation tools to guide users to other sections or related content. The placement and format of sidebars can vary depending on the publication or medium, but their common goal remains the same: to enhance the reader's experience and provide additional information beyond the main article.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "sidebar" has an interesting etymology. Its origins can be traced back to the legal profession in the 18th century. In legal proceedings, there were two main areas in the courtroom—the bench and the bar. The bench referred to the elevated platform where the judge and other court officials sat.
The "bar" was a physical barrier or railing that separated the area where lawyers spoke and presented their cases from the rest of the courtroom. Lawyers would stand next to this railing when addressing the court, and their proximity to it gave rise to the term "at the bar", meaning actively participating in a legal case.
Over time, a smaller section of this railing became known as the "sidebar". Lawyers would have conversations and discussions with the judge or other counsel "by the sidebar", referring to this location.
