How Do `min-content` and `max-content` Determine CSS Box Sizes?

How do min-content and max-content work?

Introduction to Intrinsic Dimensions

In CSS sizing, the concept of intrinsic dimensions contrasts with extrinsic dimensions. Intrinsic dimensions, like min-content and max-content, refer to properties determined by the content contained within a box, making them independent of their parent boxes. This is opposed to extrinsic dimensions, which depend on the parent box's dimensions.

Definition of min-content

Min-content represents the minimum width of a box where its contents do not overflow the box itself. It corresponds to the smallest feasible width that avoids content overflow.

Example

Consider a box named "red" that floats inside another box named "blue." If "red"'s width is set to min-content, its computed width will be the width it assumes when "blue"'s width is zero. This width represents the minimum space required to accommodate "red"'s content without causing overflow.

Definition of max-content

Max-content is an "ideal" size for a box along a given axis. It aims to minimize unfilled space while preventing overflow. In other words, it represents the best use of available space by expanding the box's content on that axis until it reaches its maximum potential.

Example

Similar to the previous example, "red" is now floating inside "blue." However, this time, "blue"'s width is set to a large number (effectively infinite). By setting "red"'s width to max-content, it will expand to occupy the maximum space available within "blue" without wasting it. This represents the best utilization of available space for "red"'s content.

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