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Cross Stroke

By Jacci Howard Bear, About.com Guide

cross stroke

Cross your t with a cross stroke

Image © J. James
Definition: The horizontal stroke across the stem of a lowercase t or f is a cross stroke. Although often used interchangeably, the cross stroke differs from an arm and a crossbar because it intersects/crosses over the stem. The varying positioning, thickness, and slope of the cross stroke is an identifying feature of many type designs.
Also Known As: arm, crossbar
Alternate Spellings: cross bar (two words)
Examples:
The cross stroke intersects the stem of a lowercase t or f. In contrast, the cross bar connects the diagonal strokes of an uppercase A or the vertical stems of an H while the arms of an uppercase F connect to the stem only at one end and the arm of an uppercase T sits at the top of the stem and doesn't connect at either end.
Type Anatomy Terms Related to Cross Stroke
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