Definition

Noun: 1. A specific size and style of type within a type family: A typeface is a particular design for a set of characters, including letters, numbers, and symbols. It defines the visual appearance, weight, and style (e.g., bold, italic) of the text, distinct from the concept of a font which often refers to a specific digital file implementing that design.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The designer chose a clean, modern typeface for the company's new logo.
  • This book is printed in a classic serif typeface called Times New Roman.
  • You should avoid using more than two or three different typefaces in a single document.

Advanced Usage

• "to set something in a typeface": to format text using a specific type design.
  • The headline was set in a bold, sans-serif typeface to grab attention.

Variants and Related Words

• Font (n): In digital typography, this term is often used interchangeably with "typeface," though technically a font is a specific instance (e.g., a 12-point bold file) of a typeface.
  • I downloaded a new font for my presentation.
• Typography (n): The art and technique of arranging type to make written language legible and appealing.
  • Good typography is essential for effective communication.

Synonyms

• Type design: The artistic creation of a typeface.
• Face: A shortened, informal term for typeface in some design contexts.
• Lettering style: A more general term describing the style of drawn or designed letters.

Related Phrases

• Typeface family: A collection of related typefaces that share core design characteristics but vary in weight (e.g., light, regular, bold) and style (e.g., roman, italic).
  • The Helvetica typeface family includes many variations.

Related Idioms

Noun

1. a specific size and style of type within a type family