Explain Codes LogoExplain Codes Logo

Why doesn't CSS ellipsis work in table cell?

html
responsive-design
css
best-practices
Anton ShumikhinbyAnton Shumikhin·Sep 14, 2024
TLDR

CSS ellipsis is activated in a table cell when the cell has a fixed width and the content can't exceed the given boundary. For this, employ text-overflow: ellipsis;, overflow: hidden; and white-space: nowrap;. Apply these properties either directly to the cell or an inner span:

.ellipsis-cell { width: 100px; /* Play around with this value, but don't go crazy. */ overflow: hidden; white-space: nowrap; text-overflow: ellipsis; }
<table> <tr> <td><span class="ellipsis-cell">Truncate me if you can! I bet you can't....</span></td> </tr> </table>

Remember, our trusty table-layout: fixed; on the table should be in place. It respects our width constraints, ensuring the cell does not transform into a limitless monster.

Making ellipsis responsive

Ensuring your table's responsiveness is crucial in the fast-paced, multi-device digital world. To implement a responsive ellipsis, use vw units or percentage widths:

.responsive-truncate { /* Adjust this value. Let your layout 'breathe', responsibly though! */ max-width: 20vw; overflow: hidden; white-space: nowrap; text-overflow: ellipsis; }

Using a nested div in your table cell provides flexibility for trucated content while respecting the overall layout.

Utilizing divs and spans within cells

When the regular styling approach doesn't seem to work, it's often owing to the quirky nature of td elements. Try encapsulating long texts within a div or span and apply the ellipsis properties to this inner canvas:

<td> <div class="ellipsis-interior">Hello! It's me. I was wondering if after all these years... Oh no, I'm getting truncated again!</div> </td>

Crucial to ensure a swift transition of your styles across multiple browsers, including those that are passed their sell-by dates like IE9 and IE11.

Nuances and adjustment with CSS properties

Sometimes inconsistency may prevail in triggering ellipsis, especially when content width doesn't demand truncation. Employing min-width can shield the cell from becoming overly truncated.

In the vast ocean of tables, precise column-wise adjustments can be the buoy of survival. Assign unique classes or inline styles to 'col' or individual 'td' elements:

.specific-column-adjustment { /* Another round of play. Adjust, adjust, adjust... */ width: 150px; }

For visual differentiation of cells, use border property. Borders make for great 'fences' and don't interfere with the width calculations for the ellipsis.