What style of type is characterized by the absence of serifs?

The style of type characterized by the absence of serifs is known as sans serif. This style of typography features clean lines and a modern appearance, making it highly legible and versatile for various design applications. The absence of serifs, which are the small lines or decorative strokes at the ends of letters in serif fonts, contributes to a streamlined look that is often preferred for digital content and signage, where clarity is essential.

Sans serif typefaces have gained popularity in contemporary design because they convey a sense of simplicity and efficiency. They are often utilized for headings, body text in digital media, and branding due to their straightforward aesthetic. In contrast, serif typefaces typically evoke a more traditional feeling, slab serif combines features of both serif and sans serif styles, and decorative fonts are often more playful or ornate, which limits their practicality for general use in advertising or branding.