HTML <blockquote> Tag

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Description

The <blockquote> element is used to represent a section of text that is a quotation from another source. It is intended for longer quotes, typically spanning multiple sentences or even paragraphs, rather than short inline quotes (which are better suited for the <q> element).

Using <blockquote> helps structure content semantically, making it clear to both readers and search engines that the text is a quoted passage. Visually, most browsers display <blockquote> content with indentation or spacing, setting it apart from surrounding text and giving it prominence on the page.

Inside a <blockquote>, it’s common to include <p> elements to separate paragraphs, and optionally a <footer> element to provide attribution, such as the name of the author or the source of the quote. This not only clarifies who is being quoted but also enhances the readability and credibility of the content.

The <blockquote> element is flexible and can be styled with CSS to match the design of a webpage - common styles include italics, quotation marks, borders, or background highlights. It is widely used in articles, blogs, essays, and any content where external statements or passages need to be emphasized.

Example:

<blockquote>
  <p>"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."</p>
  <footer> -  Ralph Waldo Emerson</footer>
</blockquote>

This shows how <blockquote> can clearly separate quoted material from the rest of the text, giving it a visual and semantic emphasis.

Properties

Permitted Parents: Any element that accepts flow content
Content: Block, inline and text
Start/End Tags: Start tag: required, End tag: required

Example

HTML

Quotation by Sharon Gold

<blockquote>

Throw out an alarming alarm clock. If the ring is loud and 

strident, you're waking up to instant stress. You shouldn't 

be bullied out of bed, just reminded that it's time to start 

your day.

</blockquote>

Result

Editor

Attributes

cite: Indicates the source of the quotation.

Global Attributes

The <blockquote> tag also supports the Global Attributes in HTML5

Event Attributes

The <blockquote> tag also supports the Event Attributes in HTML5

Browser Support

The following information will show you the current browser support for the HTML <blockquote> tag. Hover over a browser icon to see the version that first introduced support for this HTML tag.