Serif fonts are typefaces characterized by small lines or decorative strokes at the ends of their letters. These features, known as "serifs," help guide the reader's eye along the text, making it easier to read in printed materials. Common examples of serif fonts include Times New Roman and Georgia. Typically used in print media, such as books and newspapers, serif fonts convey a sense of tradition and formality. They are often preferred for long passages of text because their distinct letter shapes enhance readability, especially in smaller sizes.