Synonyms of contour

contour

noun

ˈkän-ˌtu̇r 

as in outline

a line that traces the outer limits of an object or surface

a car with flowing contours

Synonyms & Similar Words

• outline
• silhouette
• shape
• figure
• sketch
• geometry
• profile
• configuration
• delineation
• framework
• skeleton
• form
• skyline
• cast
• conformation

Synonym Chooser

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

Examples of contour in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The memory foam gently hugged our contours to offer superb spine alignment, with no lasting indentations after long periods in the same position. —Samson McDougall, Health, 9 Aug. 2024

The face mask is made of natural silicone that bends with the contours of the face for a better fit. —Macaela MacKenzie, Glamour, 8 Aug. 2024

That even applies to her 26-step makeup routine consisting of her 15 favorite products (foundation, concealer, primers, eyeshadows, lip oils and liners, blush, contour and eyebrows included). —Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 30 July 2024

Content by this author: Deal With It The basic contours of the recent agreement with Iran are solid, but the parties have a lot more work ahead of them. —Foreign Affairs, 23 July 2024