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 Atop a large green canvas painted by Imazu and based on a 1905 lithograph of the rainforest floor, a mechanical arm produced a sequence of line drawings depicting the contours of animals and plants. Naima Morelli, Artforum, 1 May 2025 But as a second puberty transforms the contours of her face, Airyn is also grappling with anxiety about how her family will regard the change. Ava Pauline Emilione, Them., 29 Apr. 2025 Joining the ranks of W blush and sunset blush, sundae blush offers the same eye-catching flush but incorporates contour into the mix. Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 25 Apr. 2025 Photo : Mike Kelley The home follows the contours of the sloped site. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 25 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for contour
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contour
Noun
  • Yet amid all the business fanfare, the outlines of an emerging Trump foreign policy could be discerned.
    Howard LaFranchi, Christian Science Monitor, 15 May 2025
  • Steve King, Merrillville’s Street Department Director and Engineering Administrator, said an upcoming step would involve creating a plan to emphasize a shared vision and outline how the initiatives would benefit both municipalities.
    Deborah Laverty, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2025
Noun
  • Bags, from the iconic Monogram to the new Miami Jacquard, take on a beachy yet polished feel, while the footwear range reimagines classic beach-ready silhouettes in unexpected fabrics.
    Karissa Mitchell, Essence, 9 May 2025
  • Worth decided what women would wear, not by creating new silhouettes, but by changing the business model.
    Brian Ng, CNN Money, 9 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Contour.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contour. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

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