delineate
UK: dɪˈlɪn.i.eɪt | US: dɪˈlɪn.i.eɪt
vt. to describe or portray something precisely
vt. to outline or sketch the boundaries of something
vt. to mark the limits of a physical space
The word "delineate" originates from Latin delineare, combining de- (thoroughly) + linea (line). The core idea is "to mark out with lines," reflecting its dual modern meanings of precise description (verbal "marking") and physical outlining. The suffix -ate standardizes it as a verb in English. Historically, it first appeared in the 1550s with the artistic sense of sketching, later expanding to abstract "description."
The report delineates the key differences between the two policies.
The artist carefully delineated the contours of the landscape.
The treaty delineates the borders between the two nations.
Her speech delineated a clear plan for economic reform.
The map delineates protected areas in green.