as in outlines
a line that traces the outer limits of an object or surface
cartoonists often try to give their characters recognizable silhouettes
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
as in traces
to draw or make apparent the outline of
in the photograph the majestic mountain is strikingly silhouetted against the setting sun
Synonyms & Similar Words
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 silhouettes
Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 19 Feb. 2026
Now the Dutch brand is taking these tools to sharpen classic denim silhouettes.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 19 Feb. 2026
When the lights dimmed, models strutted through the rows to the stage, showcasing workwear silhouettes that reflect the history and continued influence of Asian Americans in the workforce.
—Anika Reed, USA Today, 18 Feb. 2026
Glossy navy crocodile, deep browns and patent black show up in the collection, with versatile spring-ready silhouettes including the new Jamie Mule, Mona Boot and Anok Sling 55.
—Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 18 Feb. 2026
This outfit showcases a medley of silhouettes, from the oversized-sleeve sweater to the funky fringe skirt, all cinched together by a wide belt.
—Shelby Comroe, InStyle, 17 Feb. 2026
Think classic straight-leg black trousers from stalwarts like Nili Lotan and Theory, or the slouchy wide-leg silhouettes that brands like Toteme have perfected.
—Christina Holevas, Vogue, 5 Feb. 2026
From cozy sweater dresses that feel comfortable enough for long travel days to polished maxi dresses that work for dinners and special occasions, winter-friendly silhouettes make getting dressed on the road refreshingly easy.
—Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 5 Feb. 2026
Meanwhile, Miista showed a lineup of striking silhouettes for spring 2026 that certainly fit the bill — and come with New York City first lady Rama Duwaji’s seal of approval.
—Shelby Ying Hyde, Refinery29, 4 Feb. 2026
Noun
The brand’s silhouettes, colors, and textures never miss, and this spring’s new arrivals are no exception.
—Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 19 Feb. 2026
Now the Dutch brand is taking these tools to sharpen classic denim silhouettes.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 19 Feb. 2026
When the lights dimmed, models strutted through the rows to the stage, showcasing workwear silhouettes that reflect the history and continued influence of Asian Americans in the workforce.
—Anika Reed, USA Today, 18 Feb. 2026
Glossy navy crocodile, deep browns and patent black show up in the collection, with versatile spring-ready silhouettes including the new Jamie Mule, Mona Boot and Anok Sling 55.
—Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 18 Feb. 2026
This outfit showcases a medley of silhouettes, from the oversized-sleeve sweater to the funky fringe skirt, all cinched together by a wide belt.
—Shelby Comroe, InStyle, 17 Feb. 2026
Think classic straight-leg black trousers from stalwarts like Nili Lotan and Theory, or the slouchy wide-leg silhouettes that brands like Toteme have perfected.
—Christina Holevas, Vogue, 5 Feb. 2026
From cozy sweater dresses that feel comfortable enough for long travel days to polished maxi dresses that work for dinners and special occasions, winter-friendly silhouettes make getting dressed on the road refreshingly easy.
—Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 5 Feb. 2026
Meanwhile, Miista showed a lineup of striking silhouettes for spring 2026 that certainly fit the bill — and come with New York City first lady Rama Duwaji’s seal of approval.
—Shelby Ying Hyde, Refinery29, 4 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for silhouettes
Noun
-
The Bureau of Reclamation in January published outlines of the plans officials are considering.—
Elise Schmelzer,
Denver Post,
17 Feb. 2026
-
The project, which is not set within the Iron Sky universe but is designed with a similar outlandish tone, will be directed by Vuorensola, who is developing the script outlines with Finlandia Award–winning author Johanna Sinisalo, who co-wrote the original Iron Sky.—
Scott Roxborough,
HollywoodReporter,
15 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
The falling snow provided a fitting backdrop for a niche Alpine sport that traces its roots back to the late 19th century.—
ABC News,
ABC News,
19 Feb. 2026
-
The book is an illustrated autobiography that traces Dillane’s beginnings selling T-shirts in high school to his popular fashion shows in New York and Paris.—
Jean E. Palmieri,
Footwear News,
17 Feb. 2026
Noun
-
The committee’s creation is the latest call for transparency and further investigation in the aftermath of the Justice Department’s release of a trove of Epstein files, which has sent shockwaves through several industries after revelations about the late financier’s ties to prominent figures.—
Alexandra Banner,
CNN Money,
18 Feb. 2026
-
One of China’s most influential cultural figures, Wang is not simply a celebrity endorsement but occupies a rare position at the intersection of youth identity, entertainment, and fashion authority.—
Yiling Pan,
Vogue,
17 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
Through this sly trick, where doorknobs rise to noses and walls tower high above the hairline, Argento sketches a vision of witchy terror akin to early works of German surrealism.—
Kevin Jacobsen,
Entertainment Weekly,
31 Jan. 2026
-
In the wake of her parents’ separation, Lambert sketches the effects of divorce on children through the character of Pine’s daughter, delicately portrayed by Abby Ryder Fortson.—
Vanessa Franko,
Los Angeles Times,
23 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Silhouettes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/silhouettes. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
