English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word outline in English

What does outline mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

outline

US /ˈaʊt.laɪn/
UK /ˈaʊt.laɪn/
"outline" picture

Noun

1.

a general description or plan giving the essential features of something but not the detail

Example:
•
He drew an outline of the proposed building.
•
The professor gave us an outline of the course.
Synonym:
summary synopsis résumé abstract sketch
2.

the line by which a body or figure is defined or bounded

Example:
•
The mountain's sharp outline was visible against the sky.
•
She traced the outline of the leaf with her finger.
Synonym:
contour silhouette profile shape form

Verb

1.

draw, trace, or define the outer edge or shape of (something)

Example:
•
The artist carefully outlined the figure before adding color.
•
The trees were clearly outlined against the bright sky.
Synonym:
sketch trace draw delineate describe
2.

give a general description of (something), indicating only the most important features without going into detail

Example:
•
The speaker outlined the main points of the proposal.
•
The report outlined the challenges facing the industry.
Synonym:
summarize brief recapitulate itemize enumerate
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Related Word:
outlined outlining