Okuzeka
Graphic Design vocabulary · Typography

X-height

Meaning in graphic design, with examples

/ˈɛks ˌhaɪt/nounCommon term

In graphic design, x-height means: The height of the lowercase letters in a typeface, such as x, measured from the baseline and not counting the parts that go above or below, like in ‘h’ or ‘p’.

In Turkish: x yüksekliği, küçük harf yüksekliği

How it is used

Used when comparing typefaces and choosing text sizes. A typeface with a large x-height looks bigger and is often easier to read at small sizes, on screens and in signage.

Example sentences

  1. This typeface has a large x-height, so 9 pt looks like 10 pt in other fonts.

  2. For the medicine labels, choose a font with a generous x-height.

Common collocations

  • large x-height
  • small x-height
  • generous x-height
  • compare x-heights
  • baselineThe invisible line on which most letters sit. Letters like ‘g’ and ‘p’ go below it, and leading is measured from one baseline to the next.
  • legibilityHow easily individual letters and words can be recognised, which depends on the typeface design, size, contrast and viewing conditions.
  • 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.
  • leadingThe vertical distance between lines of text, measured from one baseline to the next. The name comes from strips of lead that printers once placed between lines of metal type.

More terms: Typography

Practise with graded reading

Reading at the right level is the fastest way to make new words stick. Pick free English books by level: