font

An example of different font typefaces and sizes.

The difference in close-up between a bit-mapped and vector font. As separate sets of bit maps are required for each different type size, scaleable vector graphics (outline) is the preferred medium for fonts.

Complete set of printed or display characters of the same typeface, size, and style (bold, italic, underlined, and so on).

Fonts used in computer setting are of two main types: bit-mapped and outline. Bit-mapped fonts are stored in the computer memory as the exact arrangement of pixels or printed dots required to produce the characters in a particular size on a screen or printer. Outline fonts are stored in the computer memory as a set of instructions for drawing the circles, straight lines, and curves that make up the outline of each character. Bit-mapped fonts become very ragged in appearance if they are enlarged and so a separate set of bit maps is required for each font size. In contrast, outline fonts (often marked as TT, or true type) can be scaled to any size and maintain exactly the same appearance.