Navigation & Inputs · Data Display
Skeleton Screen
also known as Skeleton loader, Content placeholder, Skeleton UI
A skeleton screen shows simplified grey blocks in the shape of the content that is loading, previewing the page's structure before real data arrives. This reduces perceived wait time by giving users a sense of what is coming. It is meant for full-page or section loads under about ten seconds.
See it live — shadcn/ui · MUI · Ant Design
Don't confuse it with
A skeleton screen mimics the actual layout so the page feels closer to ready; a spinner is a generic 'busy' icon with no layout preview. Skeletons fit full-page loads, whereas spinners suit small, indeterminate waits.
In the wild
Facebook and LinkedIn showing grey post-shaped blocks while the feed loads.