TLDR Design · OPINIONS & TUTORIALS
RETHINKING THE TERM "PRIMITIVES" IN DESIGN SYSTEMS
Summary from the TLDR Design newsletter
The term "primitives" in design systems refers to foundational elements like color, typography, and spacing but may feel vague to non-technical teams. Alternatives like "root" and "foundation" offer clearer, more inclusive language that fosters better collaboration and understanding across design, development, and stakeholder teams.