Close

What is Close?

Definition

Close is the action of shutting a window, document, or application so that it is no longer open on the screen. Depending on the item being closed, the current session may end and any unsaved changes may need to be addressed before the window disappears. This helps keep the workspace organized and allows users to finish working with items that are no longer needed.

Frayer Model Overview

Frayer model diagram explaining the computer term “Close,” with sections for definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples.

Download Close Visual Study Guide (PDF)

Characteristics

  • Stops the window or application from being open

  • Ends the current session for that window

  • May prompt the user to save unsaved changes

  • Removes the window from the screen entirely

  • Frees screen space and system resources

Examples

  • Closing a Word document after finishing work

  • Closing a browser window

  • Closing File Explorer when done browsing files

  • Closing a dialog box after making a choice

  • Clicking the close button in the title bar

Non-Examples

  • Minimizing a window

  • Switching to another open window

  • Saving a file

  • Signing out of an account

  • Turning off the computer

Related Terms