Anatomy of type + terminology (OUGD403)

Anatomy and terminology of type

Difference between a typeface and a font?

A typeface is an artistic interpretation and is usually graped in a family of italic, bold and other variations.

In simple terms it’s what you see.

A font is a collection of letters, numbers, punctuation and other symbols that use set text.

In simple terms it’s what you are using.

Lettering is essentially illustrations of letters, words and phrases.

A good example to look at is Jessica Hische.

Throughout the day we went through a presentation of terminoly and anatomy of type. Here are a few that I have learnt myself.

Bracket was the first piece of terminology introduced to us which is a curved or wedged connection. This is normally seen on a serif typeface.

Oblique is different from italic. It is seen as more sheared/ tilted.

A diacritic. This is a various symbol below or above the letter that differentiates the sound each letter makes/is said. 

A superscript is a letter/figure or symbol placed or printed about the normal line of type.

A subscript is placed below the normal line of type.

Kerning is the space between specific letters or characters.

Tracking refers to the process of loosening or tightening a block of text.

Orphan is when the word is alone on a separate line below. This is annoying for readers. ß

Leading is the vertical space between lines of text. (Baseline to baseline)

Point size – The point is a typographic unit of measure corresponding to 1/12^th of a pica.

A pica – Typographic unit of measure corresponding to 1/72th of its respective foot and therefore to 1/6^th.

An eye is an enclosed space in an e.

Crossbar

Ear

Tail

Colophon – Paragraph that shows specifications used within that book – publisher, place, date and typeface used.

I think that this exercise was very useful and helped us understand the anatomy and terminology of type. I think as graphic designers it is our duty to understand each term as we progress our learning.