Glossary Term Definition
A terminal shaped like a teardrop or lachrymal form, found on letters such as a, c, f, and r in many typefaces.
Definition
A teardrop terminal (also called a lachrymal terminal) is a rounded, bulbous stroke ending shaped like a drop of water, found at the termination points of curved strokes in letters such as a, c, f, g, j, r, and y. Teardrop terminals are characteristic of several typeface traditions, including many Baroque and Transitional designs. They represent a refinement of the ball terminal, with the drop tapering to a point where it meets the stroke. The form adds a sense of calligraphic grace while maintaining the mechanical precision expected of text typefaces.
Source
No access — Robert Bringhurst — p. 345:
A terminal in the shape of a teardrop or lachrymal form.