Out"line` (?), n.
1. (a)
The line which marks the outer limits of an object or figure; the exterior line or edge; contour.
(b)
In art: A line drawn by pencil, pen, graver, or the like, by which the boundary of a figure is indicated.
(c)
A sketch composed of such lines; the delineation of a figure without shading.
Painters, by their outlines, colors, lights, and shadows, represent the same in their pictures.
Dryden.
2.
Fig.: A sketch of any scheme; a preliminary or general indication of a plan, system, course of thought, etc.; as, the outline of a speech.
But that larger grief . . .
Is given in outline and no more.
Tennyson.
Syn. -- Sketch; draught; delineation. See Sketch.
© Webster 1913.
Out"line`, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Outlined (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Outlining.]
1.
To draw the outline of.
2.
Fig.: To sketch out or indicate as by an outline; as, to outline an argument or a campaign.
© Webster 1913.