CSS clip Property Reference

The CSS clip property is a obsolete property in CSS Masking. Review its formal syntax, computed behavior, and practical declarations.

Updated 2026-08-12

clip overview

The CSS clip property is a obsolete property in CSS Masking. Review its formal syntax, computed behavior, and practical declarations.

The property is not inherited by default. Use an explicit global keyword when inheritance is intended.

Syntax and formal definition

clip formal syntax

Field	Value
Formal syntax	<shape> \| auto
Initial value	auto
Applies to	absolutelyPositionedElements
Inherited	No
Percentages	no
Computed value	autoOrRectangle
Animation type	rectangle
Media	visual
Specification group	CSS Masking
Status	Obsolete

Practical examples

These declarations demonstrate valid ways to set clip. The initial and inherit global keywords remain available even when a property-specific value is preferable.

clip live example

CSS

.reset-example {
  clip: initial;
}

.inherit-example {
  clip: inherit;
}

@supports (clip: initial) {
  .supported {
    clip: initial;
  }
}