Kashida

Kashida (ـ), also known as Tatweel, is a horizontal elongation used in Arabic script to extend the connection between letters. It is part of the script's natural flexibility, allowing a word to expand without changing its spelling or meaning.

Typographic Considerations

Typographically, kashida affects rhythm and texture. It can be used to support justification and spacing, but it also changes the visual weight and flow of a line, which means it needs to be handled with care. A kashida that is too long or placed in the wrong join becomes obvious and can distort the word's shape, while a short, well-placed kashida can disappear into the line and simply improve balance.