outline
UK: ˈaʊtlaɪn | US: ˈaʊtlaɪn
n. 1. A general description or plan showing the essential features of something.
n. 2. The outer edge or contour of an object.
vt. 1. To summarize the main points of something.
vt. 2. To draw or trace the outer edge of an object.
outline = out<external> + line<mark or boundary>
- out: From Old English ūt, meaning "external" or "beyond."
- line: From Latin linea (via Old French ligne), meaning "a mark, stroke, or boundary."
Etymology Origin:
The word outline emerged in the late 16th century, combining out (emphasizing externality) and line (a visible mark or boundary). It originally referred to the outer edges of shapes in art, later extending metaphorically to abstract summaries or plans. The logic reflects a progression from physical boundaries (lines) to conceptual frameworks (summaries).
The professor provided an outline of the lecture before beginning.
She carefully outlined the mountain range in her sketch.
The document outlines the company’s goals for the next year.
The outline of the building was visible against the sunset.
He outlined his argument in three main points.