CAP HEIGHT Meaning and
Definition
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Cap height is a typographic term that refers to the height of uppercase letters, specifically those in a font or typeface. It is the distance from the baseline to the top edge of the capital letters, excluding any accents or diacritical marks that may extend beyond. Cap height is also known as the height of capital letters or the height of uppercase characters.
In typography, cap height plays a vital role in determining the overall appearance and readability of a text. It is especially important for titles, headings, and any text where uppercase letters are used extensively. The cap height of a font can vary greatly between different typefaces and is usually designed to be proportionate to the x-height, which is the height of lowercase letters.
When selecting typefaces or designing typography, cap height is considered along with other typographic measurements such as x-height, descender height, and ascender height to create a balanced and harmonious visual appearance. It is also taken into account when attempting to create consistent line spacing and vertical rhythm within a text.
Understanding the cap height of a font is crucial for designers, typesetters, and anyone involved in visual communications, as it helps ensure that uppercase letters are visually aligned and sized consistently throughout a design or layout.
Etymology of CAP HEIGHT
The term "cap height" in typography refers to the height of a capital letter from its baseline to its top. The etymology of the word "cap" in this context originates from the abbreviation of the word "capital". In typography, capital letters are often also referred to as "uppercase" letters or "majuscules". The term "height" indicates the vertical distance or measurement. Therefore, "cap height" specifically refers to the measurement of the height of capital letters used in typography.
