# Z-index

Decides which overlapping elements sit in front.

## What does `z-index` do?

`z-index` decides which positioned elements appear on top when they overlap: higher numbers sit in front.

```css
.dropdown-menu { position: absolute; z-index: 10; }
```

Level: Apprentice · [More CSS terms at this level](https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/subjects/css/apprentice)

Updated: September 27, 2026

Source: https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/z-index