<var>: The VAR Element
Last updated: 2026-10-13
<var>The VAR Element
Marks a variable in math expressions or programming, rendered in italic monospace by default.
| Category | Formatting |
|---|---|
| Content Model | Phrasing content |
| Allowed Parents | Any element that accepts phrasing content |
| Content Tag | Yes — requires closing </var> tag |
| Status | Standard |
📝 Syntax
<var>variable name</var>
▶ Example
Edit the code below and see the live result in the playground:
🌐 Browser Support
| Browser | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| <var> | ✓ v1 | ✓ v12 | ✓ v1 | ✓ v1 | ✓ v1 |
| Supported in all major browsers | |||||
Tip: <var> only denotes a variable; for actual formulas use MathML or an image.
❓ FAQ
QWhat is the difference between var and code?
A
<var> specifically marks variable names — variables in math expressions or programs (like <var>x</var>) — rendered italic by default; <code> covers any code fragment. Variables use var, code uses code; each keeps its own semantics.QIs var suitable for math formulas?
AYes — the default italic rendering matches mathematical typesetting conventions. Simple inline formulas (such as
<var>x</var> = <var>y</var> + 1) are fine with var; complex formulas should use MathML, KaTeX, or another dedicated typesetting solution.QShould function names also use var in programming tutorials?
ANo. Variable names use
<var>, while function names, keywords, and class names conventionally use <code>. Rule of thumb: identifiers that get assigned a value use var; other code entities use code — and stay consistent throughout.