Description List Elements Check

Description

The “Description List Elements Check” evaluates whether all <dt> (definition terms) and <dd> (definition descriptions) are properly nested inside a <dl> (description list).

Example outcome

I noticed that all <dd> and <dt> elements are contained within a list.

Impact

• Visual Impairments: Screen readers may not correctly associate terms with their definitions.
• Cognitive Disabilities: Users may struggle to understand relationships between terms and explanations.
• Learning Disabilities: Glossaries become ineffective if term-definition structure isn’t preserved.

Fixes

To address inappropriate description list elements:

1. Locate the inappropriate description list element.
2. If it is placed outside a description list, either wrap it in a <dl> element or replace the tag by one that correctly serves its purpose.
3. Ensure that a <dt> and a <dd> element are always paired and in this order.

Resources

• WCAG 2.2: Understanding Success Criteria 3.1.3
• WCAG 2.2 Techniques: Technique H40: Using description lists
• WebAIM: Semantic Structure: Regions, Headings, and Lists