What type of CSS framework is Tailwind?

Tailwind is classified as a utility-first CSS framework because it emphasizes using utility classes—small, single-purpose classes that can be combined to construct designs directly within HTML. This approach allows developers to apply styles in a granular, efficient manner without having to leave their markup. Instead of semantic components that define styles, utility-first frameworks like Tailwind enable a more compositional style where class names correspond to individual CSS properties.

This methodology leads to better maintainability and flexibility, as it allows developers to build custom designs without creating redundant CSS. The focus on utility serves to reduce the amount of CSS written while still supporting responsive design and various layout options effectively. Utility-first approaches like Tailwind allow for a rapid development workflow, adapting quickly to visual changes by simply adjusting class names rather than digging into separate CSS files.