Tittle Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈtɪtəl/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A small stroke or flourish added to a letter or symbol, especially in written or printed text.

Examples

• The tittle above the ‘i’ in the logo added a touch of elegance.
• The font designer carefully crafted the tittle on the lowercase ‘j’.

Synonyms

• Diasteme
• Dot

Antonyms

Additional Information

Titiles are often used in typography to add visual appeal and distinguish between similar characters. They can be found in various fonts, including serif and sans-serif.

In some languages, such as Arabic and Hebrew, titiles play a crucial role in distinguishing between similar letters.

Etymology

The word ‘tittle’ originates from the Old English word ‘tītel’, meaning ‘small stroke’ or ‘dot’. It is related to the Latin word ‘titulus’, meaning ‘inscription’ or ‘title’.

Usage Notes

Titiles are typically used in formal writing, such as in publications and official documents, to add a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Cultural References

The tittle has been featured in various design and typography books, showcasing its importance in visual communication.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Dot the ‘i’s and cross the ‘t’s

Related Words or Phrases

• Typography
• Font design

Collocations

• tittle above
• tittle on

Frequency of Use

The word ‘tittle’ is occasionally used in formal writing and design contexts, but it is not a commonly used term in everyday conversation.

Common Misspellings

• tittil
• tittel