Baseline
The invisible line where the bottom of most letters sit, used as a reference point for aligning text and maintaining vertical rhythm. Baseline alignment ensures multiple text elements appear visually connected even at different sizes. Understanding baselines helps create polished typography in multi-column layouts.
Leading
Typography
The vertical spacing between lines of text, measured from baseline to baseline and also known as line-height in CSS. Proper leading improves readability—too tight feels cramped while too loose breaks visual connection between lines. Generally, set leading between 1.4 and 1.6 times the font size for body text.
Bowl
Typography
In typography, a Bowl is the rounded enclosed or partially enclosed stroke that forms letters like o, d, and p.
Descender
Typography
A Descender is a typographic stroke extending below the baseline in letters such as g, p, and y, affecting line spacing and readability.
Midline
Typography
Midline is a typographic reference line that aligns the tops of short lowercase letters and helps define x-height proportion.
Points
Typography
Points are a standard unit in typography for sizing text and related spacing, where 1 point equals 1/72 of an inch.