toolbar

    A common graphical user interface
   component, consisting of a permanently visible row of button
   icons that, when clicked with the mouse, cause the program
   to perform some action such as printing the current document
   or changing the mode of operation.

   The toolbar buttons often invoke functions accessible via
   menus but they are easier to use since they are permanently
   visible.  A typical use would be in a paint program where
   the toolbar allows the users to select one of the various
   painting "tools" - brush, pencil, bucket etc.

   Some application programs under some operating systems may
   allow the user to customise the functions accessible via
   toolbars; in others, the choice is fixed by the programmer.

   (2003-10-24)