Kerning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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kerning

[ˈkɜːrnɪŋ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

typography

The spacing between characters in a font, typically used to adjust the appearance of text for better readability or aesthetics.

Synonyms

character spacing, letter spacing, typesetting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
kerning	Used in graphic design and typography to describe the adjustment of space between individual characters in a word to improve visual appeal and readability. The designer spent hours adjusting the kerning to ensure the text looked perfect on the poster. Proper kerning can make a big difference in how readable and professional your text appears.
letter spacing	Similar to character spacing, it deals with the spacing between letters in a text. Commonly used in print and digital design to enhance text legibility. The letter spacing was increased to give the headline a more elegant look. Incorrect letter spacing can make the text difficult to read.
character spacing	Refers to the overall space between characters in a line of text, often used in word processing and web design to control text appearance. You can increase character spacing if the text feels too crowded. Adjusting character spacing can impact the readability of a long block of text.
typesetting	Describes the process of arranging text on a page, including font selection, size, spacing, and alignment. Used in publishing, printing, and digital design. The typesetting of the novel was done meticulously to ensure an enjoyable reading experience. Digital typesetting tools have revolutionized the way books and articles are prepared for publishing.

Examples of usage

Adjusting the kerning can make a significant difference in the overall look of a design.
Proper kerning is crucial for ensuring that the text is easy to read.
Graphic designers pay close attention to kerning to create visually appealing layouts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term comes from the French word 'carnage', which refers to the act of setting type in early printing.
In the early days of printing, typesetters would manually adjust spaces between letters to improve readability.
The craft of kerning became essential during the transition from metal type to digital typography in the late 20th century.

Art and Design

Kerning has a significant impact on the aesthetic appeal of typography, influencing how words are perceived visually.
Graphic designers often utilize kerning techniques to create logos and branding that stand out.
Notable fonts, such as Helvetica or Garamond, are celebrated for their effective kerning, helping them remain popular in various media.

Psychology

Research shows that proper kerning can enhance readability and comprehension, leading to a better understanding of the text.
Studies suggest that poor kerning can distract readers, making them less likely to engage with the content.
Aesthetic elements like kerning can affect a person's emotional response to written material, influencing their feelings toward the text.

Technology

With modern design software, designers can easily adjust kerning digitally, allowing for precise control over typography.
Some web development frameworks include automated kerning adjustments to improve text presentations on screens.
Kerning is a critical component of user interface design, where readable text is essential for user experience.

Pop Culture

Kerning became a popular topic in the design community after a famous meme highlighted an awkward kerning error in a sign.
Movies and TV shows often use unique kerning styles in their titles and credits to create memorable branding.
Several typeface designers have released their curated typographic styles, emphasizing their distinct kerning choices.

Origin of 'kerning'

The term 'kerning' originated from the French word 'carner,' meaning 'to project.' In typography, kerning refers to the adjustment of space between characters to create visually pleasing text. The concept dates back to the early days of printing presses when metal typesetting required manual adjustments to achieve proper spacing. Today, kerning plays a crucial role in graphic design and typesetting, ensuring that text is legible and aesthetically pleasing.