POINT SIZE Meaning and
Definition
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Point size refers to the measurement of the height of characters in a typeface. It is a unit of measurement used in typography to specify the size of text and other graphical elements in both print and digital media. Typically represented as a numerical value, point size is derived from the distance from the baseline to the cap height or from the baseline to the descender line, depending on the typeface design.
In print design, point size is particularly important as it determines the legibility and visual impact of text. Generally, larger point sizes are used for headings or titles to make them more prominent, while smaller point sizes are used for body text to ensure readability. In digital media, point size is important for creating consistent and visually pleasing typography across different devices and screen sizes.
The most common unit of point size is the "point," with one point equaling 1/72 of an inch. However, some applications or systems may use different base units, such as pixels or millimeters, which can be converted to points using conversion factors. It is important to note that due to differences in typeface design and individual typographic preferences, the actual visual size of characters may vary even if they are set to the same point size.
Common Misspellings for POINT SIZE
- ooint size
- loint size
- 0oint size
- pount size
- pojnt size
- poknt size
- poont size
- po9nt size
- po8nt size
- poibt size
- poimt size
- poijt size
- poiht size
- poinr size
- poinf size
- poing size
- poiny size
- poin6 size
- poin5 size
Etymology of POINT SIZE
The term "point size" originates from the field of typography, specifically in relation to the size of printed text. The word "point" in this context refers to a unit of measurement known as the "typographic point" or simply "point".
The point as a unit of measurement in typography has its roots in the printing press era, particularly with the development of movable type. In the 18th century, printers started using a system where they measured the height of individual metal type characters by using a small metal stick called a "pointing stick". This stick would have a fine point and lines marked at specific intervals. The printer would slide the stick along the type to determine its size, referring to the lines on the stick to identify the height in terms of points.
Over time, the concept of a standard point size developed, where one point was equal to 1/72 of an inch.
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