contour (ˈkɒntʊə
)
Definitions
noun
- the outline of a mass of land, figure, or body; a defining line
- See contour line
- ((as modifier) ⇒
a contour map
- (often plural) the shape or surface, esp of a curving form ⇒
the contours of her body were full and round
- (modifier) shaped to fit the form of something ⇒
a contour chair
- a rising and falling variation pattern, as in music and intonation
verb (tr)
- to shape so as to form the contour of something
- to mark contour lines on
- to construct (a road, railway, etc) to follow the outline of the land
Word Origin
C17: from French, from Italian contorno, from contornare to sketch, from tornare to turnSynonyms
View thesaurus entryUsage examples
It followed the contour line of the mountain, running above the placer plant, then dipping quite sharply.
, High Stand (1985)Engineer Behrokh Khoshnevis, at the University of Southern California, has been perfecting his " contour crafter" for more than a year.
New Scientist (2004)A new permanent filler has been designed for correction of facial contour deformities due to ageing, acne, trauma and surgery.
Courier, Sunday Mail (2004)The most remarkable of these is the dynamic multi contour seat.
Times, Sunday Times (2002)Cut along a contour line high above the Goyt Valley, the canal was a spectacular achievement in its time.
, Exploring Britain's Canals (1994)