The phrase refers to the acquisition of digital typefaces, often through online platforms, without incurring any cost. It describes the act of obtaining, for personal or commercial use, font files provided by copyright holders or distributors under a free license or made available through unauthorized channels.
Access to these resources can be beneficial for individuals and organizations with limited budgets, enabling them to enhance their design projects without a financial investment. Historically, the distribution of digital fonts was primarily a commercial activity, but the rise of open-source and freeware licenses has led to the proliferation of readily available typefaces, expanding design possibilities for a broader audience.
