Synonyms of silhouette

silhouette 1 of 2

noun

ˌsi-lə-ˈwet 

as in outline

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

cartoonists often try to give their characters recognizable silhouettes

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

silhouette

2 of 2

verb

as in to trace

to draw or make apparent the outline of

in the photograph the majestic mountain is strikingly silhouetted against the setting sun

Synonyms & Similar Words

• trace
• outline
• sketch
• define
• circle
• trim
• round
• line
• delineate
• surround
• bound
• frame
• margin
• fringe
• skirt
• loop
• edge
• hem
• rim
• draw
• ring
• chart
• map (out)
• encircle
• compass
• girth
• diagram
• girdle

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun silhouette differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of silhouette are contour, outline, and profile. While all these words mean "the line that bounds and gives form to something," 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

Where would contour be a reasonable alternative to silhouette?

While in some cases nearly identical to silhouette, contour stresses the quality of an outline or a bounding surface as being smooth, jagged, curving, or sharply angled.

a car with flowing contours

When could outline be used to replace silhouette?

In some situations, the words outline and silhouette are roughly equivalent. However, outline applies to a line marking the outer limits or edges of a body or mass.

traced the outline of his hand

When is it sensible to use profile instead of silhouette?

The meanings of profile and silhouette largely overlap; however, profile suggests a varied and sharply defined outline against a lighter background.

a portrait of her face in profile

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of silhouette

Noun

The sun ducks down and sets Conejo Mountain against warm pinks and purples, transforming the ridgeline into an epic silhouette. —Brian Hamilton, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025

Of recent, even Bella Hadid has given the pant a go, and slimmer fitting silhouettes continue to make their presence known on the runways: from indie sleaze-leaning skinny jeans at McQueen and Balenciaga, to the more Parisian chic straight leg and cropped trousers of Chanel. —Michel Mejía, Vogue, 15 Oct. 2025

Verb

SpaceX highlighted the achievement in the post on X, sharing a dramatic image of the booster standing tall on the pad, silhouetted against the night sky after its demanding journey. —Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 26 Aug. 2025

The collection reimagines three adidas Japan silhouettes, adding Brain Dead’s signature touch to the sleek, Lo Profile design that’s gained popularity in recent years. —Essence, 25 Aug. 2025

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