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

From the Michael Thonet bentwood chairs found in Pablo Picasso’s iconic home to Hans Wegner putting his spin on the classic silhouette, these original styles can suit every type of interior (and outdoor spaces too!). —Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 7 May 2025

Following the founder’s death in 1895, the label was taken over by his sons Gaston and Jean-Philippe, who kept pace with changing trends by introducing more streamlined silhouettes. —Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 7 May 2025

Verb

Dark clouds of hydrogen gas laced with dust are silhouetted across the image. —Alan Taylor, The Atlantic, 28 Apr. 2025

Cyrus is silhouetted hazily dancing in front of the band before a close-up has her writhing on the ground in a green sequined dress. —Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 4 Apr. 2025

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