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Glossary

Accessible description

The accessible description is supplemental text — distinct from the accessible name — that screen readers may announce after the name to give context. Computed from `aria-describedby`, then `title`.

Also: aria-describedbyAlso: a11y descriptionAlso: accname description

Detailed explanation

A common pattern: a form field has the accessible name "Email address" (from its `<label>`) and the accessible description "We will never share your email" (from `aria-describedby` pointing at a help text element). The screen reader announces the name first, then the description after a pause.

Error messages on form fields should attach via `aria-describedby` so that submitting an invalid form announces the specific error inline. Using `aria-label` to override the name with the error text is the wrong pattern — it loses the field's actual name.

How this applies to Shopify stores

AccessComply's form-fix agent attaches help text and validation errors via `aria-describedby`, never via `aria-label`. This preserves the original label as the field's accessible name and adds context as a separate description.

Primary source: w3.org