outline Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun the line that appears to bound an object
lineation.
noun a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory
precis; synopsis; abstract.
noun a schematic or preliminary plan
scheme; schema.
verb describe roughly or briefly or give the main points or summary of
sketch; adumbrate.
- sketch the outline of the book
- outline his ideas
verb draw up an outline or sketch for something
draft.
- draft a speech
verb trace the shape of
delineate; limn.

(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.
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.

imperfect & past participle Outlined ; present participle & verbal noun Outlining

To draw the outline of.
Fig.: To sketch out or indicate as by an outline; as, to outline an argument or a campaign.