The vertex is the point at the bottom of a letter, where two diagonal strokes meet. It is the counterpart of the apex, which refers to the point at the top.
Where to see it
The vertex is visible at the base of the capital “V” and lowercase “v”, as well as at the bottom of “W” and “w”. On the “M”, depending on the typeface, the central point can also form a vertex, which comes down more or less close to the baseline.
Why this detail matters
The design of the vertex directly shapes the balance and personality of a typeface:
- A pointed vertex gives a sharp, incisive look; a flat-cut or rounded vertex gives a steadier, softer appearance;
- When pointed, the vertex usually dips slightly below the baseline so that the letter does not look smaller than its neighbors;
- The height of the central vertex of the “M”, whether it touches the baseline or stops higher, noticeably changes the letter’s silhouette and the character of the font.
Related term
The apex is the counterpart of the vertex: the point at the top of a letter where two strokes meet, as at the top of the “A”.
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