HTML / Accessibility
Semantics shape meaning
Meaningful HTML communicates the purpose of content to browsers, readers and assistive technology.
A class name can explain intent to a developer, but it does not replace an HTML element's semantics. A div called navigation does not automatically expose a navigation landmark.
Express relationships
<nav aria-label="Articles">
<ul>
<li><a href="/articles/semantics-shape-meaning">Semantics</a></li>
<li><a href="/articles/the-cascade-can-be-tamed-not-ignored">The cascade</a></li>
</ul>
</nav>
The nav describes the block's purpose, the list groups the items and the anchors provide real destinations. Each element contributes a different relationship.
Check meaning without styling
Read the document with CSS disabled. Do the headings form a sensible outline? Are link labels understandable in context? Can controls be operated with the keyboard?
Semantic HTML helps expose structure, but accessibility also depends on content, contrast, focus and behaviour. Prefer the native element that matches the task, and use generic containers when no specific meaning is intended.