Design Token
A Design Token names one design choice. Examples include a color, space, font, or motion speed.
Another example
Every component uses color.text.muted instead of copying the same gray code many times.
Main parts
- 01Foundation or token
- 02Applied component
- 03Visible state and rule
Use it when
Use one when a design choice must update in the same way across themes or platforms.
Do not use it when
Never make a token for a value used once unless the name adds real meaning.
Name used in code
--color-text-muted Before you ship
Check content order, shared design values, component consistency, contrast, zoom, and layout changes by screen size. Verify every theme, language, and state. If there is motion, offer an equal reduced-motion experience.
Outcome: Use or define Design Token to make the visual experience clear and easy to use. User context: Every component uses color.text.muted instead of copying the same gray code many times. Design concept to apply: Design Token. Why it fits: Use one when a design choice must update in the same way across themes or platforms. Do not use it when: Never make a token for a value used once unless the name adds real meaning. Design requirements: Set the content order, shared design values, and reusable components. Define how the layout changes by screen size and state. Keep useful design choices separate from decoration. Inclusion and resilience: Check contrast, zoom, languages, themes, and reduced motion when needed. Do not use color or effects as the only way to show meaning. Acceptance criteria: The design stays clear on phones and desktops, at zoom, in every theme, and in all supported languages. Interactive states stay clear and consistent. Evidence and limits (evidence boundary): A formal document may still be a draft, release candidate, or final version. Check its status and browser or platform support. Unknowns to confirm: Brand limits, amount of content, supported themes and languages, target devices, and design-system rules.
Check this request
Review the current use of Design Token. Definition: A Design Token names one design choice. Examples include a color, space, font, or motion speed. Release checks: Check content order, shared design values, component consistency, contrast, zoom, and layout changes by screen size. Verify every theme, language, and state. If there is motion, offer an equal reduced-motion experience. Before changing code, report the evidence you found, gaps, severity, and the smallest safe fix.