What is lorem ipsum?
Lorem ipsum is dummy text used to fill a layout before the real words are ready. It looks like Latin, but it is a scrambled version of a passage from De finibus bonorum et malorum, a work on ethics that Cicero wrote in 45 BC. Words were cut, changed and rearranged, so it reads as plausible text with no real meaning.
Why designers use placeholder text
- It keeps attention on the design. Readable sample copy invites people to edit the words when you want feedback on layout, spacing and type.
- It has a natural rhythm. The mix of short and long words looks like real text, so line breaks and paragraph shapes are realistic.
- Everyone recognizes it. No one mistakes lorem ipsum for final copy.
When to use real copy instead
Placeholder text hides problems. A headline that fits as two Latin words can break the layout when the real one has twelve. For landing pages, product pages and anything with forms or buttons, draft rough real copy early. The words often change the design: a page may need room for a longer offer, a list of benefits or a price table.
Tips for working with lorem ipsum
- Match the expected length. If the real product description will be 60 words, use about 60 words of placeholder text, not three paragraphs.
- Vary paragraph counts. Test a card or blog layout with one short paragraph and with several long ones.
- Search before you launch. Search your site or code for "lorem" before you publish. Placeholder text on a live page looks unfinished and gives search engines nothing useful to index.
- Keep it out of alt text and metadata. Fill image descriptions, page titles and meta descriptions with real content from the start, so they are not forgotten.
Runs in your browser
This generator builds the text on your device. Nothing is sent to a server, so it works instantly and you can generate as many paragraphs as you need, up to 20 per click.