The cross stroke is the horizontal stroke that cuts right through the stem of a letter without connecting two main strokes. This sets it apart from the bar, which bridges two strokes, as on the “H” or the “A”.
Where to see it
The cross stroke is visible on the lowercase “t” and “f”, where a horizontal stroke crosses the stem at the x-height. It also appears on some special characters, such as “ƒ” or “đ”.
Why this detail matters
The position and design of the cross stroke directly shape the balance and rhythm of a typeface:
- Placed at the x-height, the cross stroke aligns the “t” and “f” with the other lowercase letters and reinforces the regularity of the line;
- Its length on either side of the stem, symmetrical or offset, changes the width of the letter and its spacing with its neighbors;
- Its thickness and its ends, straight or beveled, contribute to the style: a thin, slanted cross stroke evokes the pen, while a thick, straight one suggests a more geometric design.
Related term
The bar is the horizontal stroke that connects two main strokes of a letter, as on the “A” or “H”, or that closes the eye of the “e”.
Anatomy glossary
Ascender, Descender, Sidebearing, Joint, Axis, Bar, Beak, Bowl, Loop, Set width, Counter, Serif, Stem, Leg, Minim, Baseline, Eye, Belly, Foot, Point, Tail, Cross stroke, Terminal; X-height, X-height, Cap height, Body; Mean line, Ear, Spur, Ball terminal, Ligature, Apex, Vertex, Arm, Shoulder, Spine, Em dash, Thick stroke, Hairline, Bracket, Bounding box