outline

1 a line that traces the outer limits of an object or surface place your hand on the paper and draw an outline around it Synonyms contour, figure, silhouette Related Words delineation, sketch; profile, skyline; cast, configuration, conformation, form, geometry, shape; framework, skeleton

2 a short statement of the main points a printed outline of the lecture has been made available for all attendees Synonyms abstract, breviary, brief, capsule, conspectus, digest, encapsulation, epitome, inventory, summary, précis, recap, recapitulation, résumé (or resume also resumé), roundup, rundown, run-through, sum, summa, summarization, summing-up, sum-up, synopsis, wrap-upRelated Words abbreviation, abridgment (or abridgement), compend, compendium, condensation, curtailment, shortening; simplification, streamlining; rehash, reprise; conclusion, epilogue (also epilog)Near Antonyms amplification, enlargement, expansion; addendum, supplement

1 to draw or make apparent the outline of she carefully outlined the tree before she started drawing in the leaves Synonyms define, delineate, silhouette, sketch, trace Related Words line; bound, fringe, margin, skirt; edge, hem, rim, trim; frame; circle, compass, encircle, girdle, girth, loop, ring, round, surround; chart, diagram, draw, map (out)

2 to make into a short statement of the main points (as of a report) outlined the important points in the introduction Synonyms abstract, boil down, brief, digest, encapsulate, epitomize, summarize, recap, recapitulate, reprise, sum up, synopsize, wrap upRelated Words abridge, condense, curtail, cut back, shorten; downsize, shrink; concentrate, consolidate; decoct, essentialize; simplify, streamlineNear Antonyms elongate, extend, lengthen, prolong, protract; amplify, elaborate (on or upon), enlarge (on or upon), expand, supplement