Definition: The main diagonal portion of a letterform such as in N, M, or Y is the stroke. The stroke is secondary to the main stem(s). Some letterforms with two diagonals, such as A or V have a stem (the primary vertical or near-vertical stroke) and a stroke (the main diagonal).
Other letter parts such as bars, arms, stems, and bowls are collectively referred to as the strokes that make up a letterform.
