serif

[ ser-if ]

noun

, Printing.

1. a smaller line used to finish off a main stroke of a letter, as at the top and bottom of M.

serif

/ ˈsɛrɪf /

noun

1. printing a small line at the extremities of a main stroke in a type character

Word History and Origins

Origin of serif¹

1835–45; perhaps < Dutch schreef line (in writing), akin to schrijven to write

Word History and Origins

Origin of serif¹

C19: perhaps from Dutch schreef dash, probably of Germanic origin, compare Old High German screvōn to engrave

Example Sentences

The bold contrasting strokes, strong verticality and easily recognizable serifs and ball terminals were perfectly suited for advertisements, posters and signs in the early 20th century.

From Time

GNL loses one for the ugh quality of its sans serif supered on sickly green and gray tints.

From The Daily Beast

Text shown in bold sans-serif type was printed in blackletter (Gothic).

From Project Gutenberg

Text in sans-serif type was originally printed in blackletter (Gothic, Old English).

From Project Gutenberg

The parts originally printed in Roman type are here shown in a sans-serif font to keep the visual distinction.

From Project Gutenberg

A very thin line or serif is apt to be lost in the background.

From Project Gutenberg

New Zealand stamps overprinted "Samoa" in sans-serif type 2mm.

From Project Gutenberg