contour
UK: ˈkɒn.tʊər | US: ˈkɑːn.tʊr
n. the outline or shape of something, especially a curved or irregular one
n. (Geography) a line on a map joining points of equal height
vt. to mark or shape the outline of something
contour = con<together> + tour<turn>
- con<together>: From Latin cum (with, together), indicating combination or unity.
- tour<turn>: From Old French tour (a turn, circuit), derived from Latin tornare (to turn on a lathe).
Etymology Origin:
The word contour entered English in the mid-17th century from French contour, originally meaning "a circuit or boundary." It combines con- (together) and tour (turn), reflecting the idea of "turning together" to form a continuous outline. This aligns with its modern usage in geography (lines turning to connect equal elevations) and art (shapes formed by connected curves).
The artist carefully traced the contour of the model’s face.
The map uses brown lines to show elevation contours.
The dress was designed to contour the body’s natural curves.
Contour farming helps prevent soil erosion on hillsides.
His speech contoured the key issues without delving into details.