What does the term "serif" refer to in typography?

The term "serif" in typography specifically refers to a style of font characterized by small lines or decorative strokes at the ends of letters. These embellishments enhance the overall appearance of the text, making it more visually appealing and easier to read in certain contexts. Serifs can help guide the reader's eye along the lines of text, especially in printed materials.

Fonts that feature serifs, such as Times New Roman or Garamond, are often considered more traditional and are commonly used in formal documents, printed books, and newspapers because they provide a classic aesthetic and improved readability in longer passages. This distinguishes them from sans-serif fonts, which do not have these decorative elements and tend to have a cleaner, more modern look suitable for digital displays and minimalist design.