What does leading refer to in typography?

Leading refers to the vertical space between lines of text in a paragraph. It is an important aspect of typography as it affects the readability and overall appearance of the text. Proper leading can enhance legibility, creating the right balance between too much space, which can make the text feel disconnected, and too little space, which can lead to a cramped appearance.

By adjusting the leading, designers can control how text flows, making it easier for readers to follow along without losing their place. This element plays a significant role in establishing the visual rhythm of a block of text, influencing both aesthetic appeal and user experience. In contrast, height of a font relates to the size and proportions of the characters, space between paragraphs deals with the separation between distinct blocks of text, and alignment pertains to how text is positioned in relation to the margins or page, which are all separate typographical considerations.