How is "Kerning" defined in typography?

Kerning is defined as the spacing between individual characters in a word or line of text. This concept is crucial in typography because it affects the overall readability and aesthetic appeal of written content. Adjusting kerning helps to ensure that letters appear evenly spaced and visually pleasing, avoiding awkward gaps or overly tight arrangements that could hinder readability.

For example, in certain typefaces, specific character pairs may require more or less space between them to enhance legibility. Fine-tuning kerning allows designers and typographers to create a more polished and professional look in their typography, thereby improving the overall effectiveness of the text in communicating its message.