letterine

A letterine is a type of drop cap, a large initial letter at the beginning of a paragraph or chapter, which extends beyond the margin of the text. The term "letterine" is derived from the French word "lettre," meaning letter, and "ine," a suffix used to form feminine nouns. Letterines are often used in typography to create a visually striking start to a section of text, drawing the reader's attention and emphasizing the importance of the content that follows.

Letterines can vary in size, shape, and design, and they can be incorporated into various types of documents, including books, magazines, and newspapers. They are commonly used in literary works, such as novels and poetry, to signify the beginning of a new chapter or section. In addition to their decorative function, letterines can also serve a practical purpose by providing a visual cue to the reader, helping them to locate the start of a new section more easily.

The use of letterines dates back to the Middle Ages, when they were often employed in illuminated manuscripts. Today, letterines continue to be a popular design element in modern typography, with designers and publishers using them to create visually appealing and engaging documents.