The term 12-point types refers to a type of font size. The most common type of 12-point type is called PICAS, which is an acronym for 'Pica Point System'. This system was developed in the early 20th century and is still used today. It is based on the traditional point system, where one pica is equal to 12 points. Pica is also the name of a unit of measurement used in typography, which is equal to 1/6 of an inch.