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Ligature Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ligature

[หˆlษชษกษ™tสƒษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

typography, medicine

A ligature is a character or combination of characters that are joined together to form a single unit in writing or printing. In typography, ligatures are used to improve visual appearance and readability, particularly in serif fonts where letters may touch or overlap. In medicine, a ligature can refer to a thread or wire used to tie something tightly, often used in surgical procedures. Ligatures play an important role in both style and function, enhancing the clarity of written text and serving practical purposes in healthcare.

Synonyms

attachment, bond, tie.

Examples of usage

  • The word โ€˜fiโ€™ is often written as a ligature in printed text.
  • Doctors used a ligature to secure a blood vessel during surgery.
  • In typography, ligatures ensure that letters like โ€˜fโ€™ and โ€˜iโ€™ connect smoothly.

Translations

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

Origin of 'ligature'

The term โ€˜ligatureโ€™ originates from the Latin word โ€˜ligareโ€™, meaning โ€˜to bindโ€™. This root is fitting as ligatures essentially serve to bind letters together in written form. The use of ligatures in typography can be traced back to early typesetting practices in the 15th century, where printers sought ways to create more visually appealing and space-efficient text. By combining certain characters into a single glyph, typesetters achieved a cleaner look while also mitigating the risks of overlapping letters. Throughout history, ligatures have evolved, with different languages and dialects adopting unique representations. In the medical field, ligatures have been utilized since antiquity, primarily for surgical procedures, to manage bleeding and secure bodily structures. Today, ligatures continue to hold significance in both typography and medicine, illustrating the diverse applications of the word in different contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,566, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.