contour

Plural: contours

Noun

• a line drawn on a map connecting points of equal height
• any spatial attributes (especially as defined by outline)
• a feature (or the order or arrangement of features) of anything having a complex structure
  • "the contours of the melody"
  • "it defines a major contour of this administration"
• An outline, boundary or border, usually of curved shape.
• A line on a map or chart delineating those points which have the same altitude or other plotted quantity: a contour line or isopleth; (metonymically) the landform or its surface.
• a speech sound which behaves as a single segment, but which makes an internal transition from one quality, place, or manner to another.
• A general description giving the most important points.

Verb

Verb Forms: contoured, contouring, contours

• To mold or shape something, often to define its outline.
• form the contours of
• To form a more or less curved boundary or border upon.
• To mark with contour lines.
• To practise the makeup technique of contouring.
• To shape conditions regarding salient points.

Examples

• He tried to CONTOUR his word choices to fit the existing letters on the Scrabble board.
• the low drag contour of a modern automobile

Synonyms

configuration, conformation, contour line, form, shape

Anagrams of contour