KerningTabellen

Kerningtabellen is the kerning data embedded in a font that records adjustments to the space between specific pairs of glyphs. It is used by text layout and rendering systems to refine the appearance of lines of text and improve optical harmony.

Historically, kerning was done manually in metal type. In digital typography, kerning information is stored in font files, enabling automatic adjustments during shaping. Modern font technology uses formats such as OpenType and TrueType. OpenType employs the GPOS table to describe pairwise adjustments, while older fonts could include a separate kern table. Kerning data may be defined for individual glyph pairs or through class-based systems to optimize storage.

A kerning table specifies a kerning value for each relevant pair of glyphs. The adjustment modifies the default side bearings of the glyphs in a pair. Negative values bring the glyphs closer together; positive values add more space. During text shaping, layout engines consult the kerning data and apply the adjustment as text is laid out on a line, subject to the script, font, and rendering pipeline.

Not all fonts include extensive kerning data, and the presence or quality of kerning depends on the font design. kerning can be disabled or overridden by user settings or by certain layout features in software. Kerning remains a key factor in the perceived quality of typography, especially in display settings and well-set body text.