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 timeless silhouette can elevate every outfit, from a leggings-and-long sweater combo to a midi skirt and trench coat. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 21 Sep. 2025

The inflated silhouette is a Luar signature, one that Lopez often dons on regular days running errands around town. —Ana Karina Zatarain, New Yorker, 19 Sep. 2025

Verb

For a photocall for her new film A Big Bold Beautiful Journey in Los Angeles on Wednesday night, Robbie opted for one of her favorite red-carpet silhouettes: a corseted mini. —Emily Chan, Vogue, 21 Aug. 2025

As the full moon sank below the horizon, silhouetting palm trees at Jetty Park, the light of dawn ushered in the arrival of the world’s largest cruise ship to its new homeport on Florida’s Space Coast. —Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 Aug. 2025

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!