user interface
(UI) The aspects of a computer system or program which can be seen (or heard or otherwise perceived) by the human user, and the commands and mechanisms the user uses to control its operation and input data.
A graphical user interface emphasises the use of pictures for output and a pointing device such as a mouse for input and control whereas a command line interface requires the user to type textual commands and input at a keyboard and produces a single stream of text as output.
A user interface contrasts with, but is typically built on top of, an Application Program Interface (API).
See also user interface copyright.
(1995-02-20)