as in outline
a line that traces the outer limits of an object or surface a car with flowing contours

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How does the noun contour differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of contour are outline, profile, and silhouette. While all these words mean "the line that bounds and gives form to something," contour stresses the quality of an outline or a bounding surface as being smooth, jagged, curving, or sharply angled.

a car with flowing contours

In what contexts can outline take the place of contour?

The meanings of outline and contour largely overlap; however, outline applies to a line marking the outer limits or edges of a body or mass.

traced the outline of his hand

When might profile be a better fit than contour?

Although the words profile and contour have much in common, profile suggests a varied and sharply defined outline against a lighter background.

a portrait of her face in profile

Where would silhouette be a reasonable alternative to contour?

The words silhouette and contour are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, silhouette suggests a shape especially of a head or figure with all detail blacked out in shadow leaving only the outline clearly defined.

photograph in silhouette against a bright sky

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of contour The jeans have strategically placed back pockets to lift and contour. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 19 Aug. 2025 The best Korean contour According to MUAs, Korean makeup is less about dramatic contour. Denise Primbet, Glamour, 19 Aug. 2025 This collection combined the luxury label’s signature sock boot silhouette with the toe-centric contour Vibram is known for — mechanical-looking heels were the cherry on top of the futuristic designs. Kelsey Stiegman, Refinery29, 13 Aug. 2025 These usually have a cradling design to contour to the body. Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 8 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for contour
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contour
Noun
  • The sheer gloss on her lips was given a high-contrast, rust-red outline that matched several shades of her eye shadow, which also included gold and navy blue.
    Marci Robin, Allure, 1 Sep. 2025
  • The outline of a tiny footprint in black ink stands out against a white sheet of paper lined with a pastel pink border.
    Lauren Mascarenhas, CNN Money, 31 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • It’s made with a soft cotton-blend material, sporting a classic gingham pattern, four buttons down the front, and a slim fit that cinches in your waist for a flattering silhouette.
    Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 5 Sep. 2025
  • The combination of mock-medieval silhouettes with all those big hats and acres of fabric in contrast with the lush sets somewhat brings to mind the delirious period pastiche design ethos of the late Derek Jarman, himself a production designer early in his career.
    Leslie Felperin, HollywoodReporter, 5 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Contour.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contour. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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