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Graphic Design vocabulary · Typography

Sans-serif

Meaning in graphic design, with examples

/ˌsænˈsɛrɪf/adjectiveCore term

In graphic design, sans-serif means: Describes letters without serifs, the small feet at the ends of strokes, as in Helvetica, Arial or Futura. Such typefaces often look clean and modern.

In Turkish: tırnaksız, sans serif

How it is used

Used as an adjective (a sans-serif typeface) and as a noun (a clean sans-serif); designers often shorten it to sans. Very common in screen design, signage and modern brands.

Example sentences

  1. Signage in airports usually uses a sans-serif typeface because it is clear from far away.

  2. Let's try a geometric sans-serif for the app; the current font feels too old-fashioned.

Common collocations

  • sans-serif typeface
  • geometric sans-serif
  • humanist sans-serif
  • clean sans-serif
  • serifA small line or foot at the end of the strokes of a letter, as in Times or Garamond. A typeface with these details is also called a serif.
  • typefaceA particular design of letters, numbers and symbols that share the same style, such as Helvetica, Garamond or Futura, usually available in several weights and styles.
  • fontOne specific style and weight of a typeface, such as Arial Bold, usually stored as a file you install on your computer. In everyday speech it often means the typeface itself.
  • legibilityHow easily individual letters and words can be recognised, which depends on the typeface design, size, contrast and viewing conditions.

More terms: Typography

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