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Legibility Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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legibility

[หˆlษ›dส’ษ™หŒbษชlษชti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

readability

Legibility refers to the ease with which text can be read and understood. It is often determined by factors such as font style, font size, spacing, and contrast between the text and its background. High legibility is essential in documents, signage, and any written communication to ensure clarity and comprehension.

Synonyms

clarity, readability, understandability.

Examples of usage

  • The legibility of the text improved with a larger font size.
  • Good legibility is crucial for road signs.
  • The designer focused on legibility to enhance user experience.
  • Poor legibility can lead to misunderstandings.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art and Design

  • In graphic design, legibility is crucial for effective communication, ensuring that text can be read easily from a distance.
  • Fonts designed with higher x-height and wider letter spacing tend to have better legibility.
  • Contrasting colors between text and background can greatly enhance legibility in visual arts.

Psychology

  • Studies have shown that legible text can reduce cognitive load, making it easier for readers to engage with material.
  • Clarity in writing improves memory retention; people are more likely to remember information that is easy to read.
  • Research indicates that familiarity with certain fonts can increase perceived legibility, making readers feel more comfortable.

Technology

  • In web design, legibility impacts user experience; poor legibility can lead to higher bounce rates on websites.
  • Responsive design techniques aim to maintain legibility across various devices, from smartphones to large screens.
  • Accessibility standards emphasize legibility, ensuring that content is readable for individuals with visual impairments.

Education

  • In classroom settings, legibility can affect students' learning; clear handwriting is often linked to better academic performance.
  • Teachers encourage students to practice legibility to improve their writing skills and ensure their work is easily understood.
  • Textbooks and educational materials are designed with legibility in mind to facilitate effective learning.

Origin of 'legibility'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'legibilis,' which means 'that can be read.'
  • It evolved in the English language in the early 19th century, signifying the quality of being readable.
  • The prefix 'leg-' relates to reading, while '-ibility' indicates a state or quality.

The term 'legibility' originates from the Latin word 'legibilis', which means 'that can be read'. The root 'legere' translates to 'to read' in Latin. The word has evolved through Middle French 'lรฉgibilitรฉ' before entering the English language in the early 19th century. Initially, it was used to describe the clarity of handwriting and printing. As written communication evolved with the advent of typewriters and digital text, the concept of legibility expanded to include discussions on typography, graphic design, and even web design. In today's context, legibility remains a vital aspect in fields ranging from education, where legible materials enhance learning, to marketing, where clear messaging can significantly impact brand perception and consumer behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,565, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.