# glyph

/ɡlˈɪf/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/glyph
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a single character or symbol in a writing system. In computing, it refers to the specific shape of a character on a screen or in a font.

For teachers: a single character or symbol in a writing system, especially one that represents a word or a syllable. In digital typography, it refers to the specific visual representation of a character in a particular font.

## Examples

- The designer chose a unique glyph for the company logo.
- The software allows users to customize the glyph for every letter in the alphabet to create a custom font.
- While the Unicode standard defines the abstract character, the actual glyph displayed on a screen depends entirely on the specific font chosen by the user.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.