italic
This term describes a specific visual style of typography where characters lean to the right. It is primarily used in professional publishing and academic writing to signal a shift in the nature of the text, such as denoting a title, a foreign word, or a term being defined. The visual slant creates a distinct contrast with roman type, drawing the reader's eye without requiring a change in font size.
When used as a noun, the word refers to the style itself. While it can be used in the plural to describe specific slanted characters, it is most frequently treated as an uncountable mass noun when referring to the general typographic category or the act of using that style.
Meanings
Written or printed in a slanted style of typeface to provide emphasis or distinguish specific text.
The book titles are printed in italic type.
A typeface characterized by slanted letters, originally developed in Renaissance Italy.
The editor suggested using italic for the foreign phrases.