Graphic Novel Terms

Panel

• A single frame or box in which a single scene or action takes place.
• Lines used to convey emotion.
• The space between panels on a page, shows passage of time.

Gutter

• When the artwork extends beyond the edge of the page.
• The space between panels on a page, shows passage of time.
• Lines used to convey emotion.

Splash Page

• The lines and borders that contain the panels.
• A rounded or oval-shaped graphic containing characters' spoken words.
• A full-page illustration, typically used for impactful moments.

Spread

• Words that imitate the sound they describe (e.g., "Pow," "Bang," "Zap").
• A two-page layout with artwork spanning both pages.
• The arrangement of panels on a page to create a visual narrative.

Caption

• Lines used to convey emotion.
• A box of text typically used for narration or providing additional information.
• The heaviness of a line or shading for visual focus

Speech Balloon

• A rounded or oval-shaped graphic containing characters' spoken words.
• The elements in the front of a panel, closer to the viewer.
• Lines used to convey movement or action in a static image.

Thought Bubble

• A rounded or oval-shaped graphic containing characters' spoken words.
• A narrative device where a character's thoughts or commentary are presented in the form of a spoken monologue typically not directly addressed to other characters. This can be represented by captions or text boxes.
• Similar to a speech balloon, but used to represent a character's inner thoughts.

Emanta

• Lines used to convey emotion.
• A box of text typically used for narration or providing additional information.
• The lines and borders that contain the panels.

Grawlix

• A narrative device where a character's thoughts or commentary are presented in the form of a spoken monologue typically not directly addressed to other characters. This can be represented by captions or text boxes.
• Symbols (such as !@#$%) used in place of profanity in speech balloons.
• A full-page illustration, typically used for impactful moments.

Onomatopoeia

• A box containing text separate from the main action, often providing context.
• Words that imitate the sound they describe (e.g., "Pow," "Bang," "Zap").
• A single frame or box in which a single scene or action takes place.