Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

descender

noun

/dɪˈsɛndər/

Definition

A descender is a part of a lowercase letter that extends below the baseline of text.

Examples

The letter ‘g’ is an example of a letter with a descender.
In calligraphy, descenders can add to the visual interest of the text.
When typesetting, understanding descenders helps in ensuring proper line spacing.

Meaning

In typography, the descender refers to the downward stroke of letters such as ‘g’, ‘j’, ‘p’, ‘q’, and ‘y’. It is the portion of the letter that hangs below the line of text.