outlines

Noun

outline (plural outlines)

1. A line marking the boundary of an object figure.

   Synonyms:

   lineation

2. The outer shape of an object or figure.
   • From this point of vantage, we were able to gain an impression of the massive outlines of the main structure, and its intricate maze of girders.1950 March, H. A. Vallance, “On Foot Across the Forth Bridge”, in Railway Magazine, page 149
3. A sketch or drawing in which objects are delineated in contours without shading.
   • Painters, by their outlines, colours, lights, and shadows, represent the same in their pictures.1695, C[harles] A[lphonse] du Fresnoy, translated by John Dryden, De Arte Graphica. The Art of Painting, […], London: […] J[ohn] Heptinstall for W. Rogers, […], →OCLC
4. A general description of some subject.
5. A statement summarizing the important points of a text.
6. A preliminary plan for a project.
   • the outline of a speech

See all 11 meanings of outline