contour

verb

contoured; contouring; contours

transitive verb

1

a

: to shape the contour of

b

: to shape so as to fit contours

2

: to construct (something, such as a road) in conformity to a contour

Examples of contour in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Crafted in black with a body-contouring silhouette, the maxidress featured a halter and plunging neckline with a cutout just beneath the bust and above the waist. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 1 June 2026

These faux leather sandals have a cushy, contoured footbed with arch support that is slightly elevated on the sides to keep your feet in place and ensure comfort for long days on your feet. —Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 29 May 2026

Carter recommends styles with less coverage, while Al-Khalil says softer cups tend to contour more naturally to smaller chests than stiff molded padding. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 28 May 2026

Plus, these contoured, IP54 dust and sweat-resistant earbuds feature shorter stems, convenient force sensor tap controls, head-gesture Siri Interactions, and up to 20 hours of total battery life with the wireless charging case. —Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 26 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing contour

• contour feather
• contour line
• contour map

Rhymes for contour

• abjure
• adjure
• allure
• assure
• brochure
• cocksure
• coiffure
• couture
• demure
• detour
• endure
• ensure

Kids Definition

contour

1 of 3 noun

con·​tour ˈkän-ˌtu̇(ə)r 

1

: the outline of a figure, body, or surface

2

: a line or drawing showing an outline

contour

2 of 3 adjective

1

: following contour lines or forming furrows or ridges along them

contour farming

contour flooding

2

: made to fit the contour of something

contour bedsheets

contour

3 of 3 verb

1

: to shape the contour of

2

: to shape to fit contours

Medical Definition

contour

1 of 2 noun

con·​tour ˈkän-ˌtu̇(ə)r 

: an outline especially of a curving or irregular figure

also : the line representing this outline

contour

2 of 2 transitive verb

: to shape the contour of

contour a gingiva in gingivoplasty