outline
outline Lexical Profile
outline Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A general description or structured plan showing the essential features of something without going into specific detail.
"Before writing her research paper, she drafted a detailed outline of the main arguments."
A line or set of lines enclosing or indicating the outer shape of an object in a sketch, diagram, or visual scene.
"The artist began by sketching the faint outline of the mountains in charcoal."
• verb
To give a summary of the main points or structure of a subject, plan, or argument.
"The professor outlined the course requirements during the first lecture of the semester."
To draw, trace, or define the outer edge or shape of something.
"Tall pine trees were clearly outlined against the bright evening sky."
• Rhymes for outline
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in English from 'out' and 'line', attested in Old English as 'utlina' meaning an outer boundary, and revived in the 17th century to translate Italian 'contorno' in the context of drawing.