Contour Meaning and Definition
Contour
Pronunciation
/kənˈtɔr/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A contour is a line or shape that forms the boundary or outline of something, or the art of drawing or depicting the external form of an object.
Examples
1. “The architect used a contour map to visualize the topography of the land.”
2. “Contour drawing is a technique used in art to convey the shape and volume of an object.”
Synonyms
1. Outline
2. Profile
Antonyms
1. Core
2. Center
Additional Information
A contour is a fundamental concept in various fields, including art, architecture, geography, and engineering. In art, contour drawing is used to create a two-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional object. In geography, contour lines are used to represent the shape and elevation of the land on a map. Contouring is also used in engineering to design and visualize complex systems and structures.
Contour can also refer to the edges or outlines of a three-dimensional object or shape. It can be used to describe the way light falls on an object, creating highlights and shadows. In this sense, contour is closely related to the concept of texture.
The term “contour” comes from the Latin word “contornare,” which means “to turn around.” This refers to the way that contour lines turn around the shape of an object.
Etymology
The word “contour” has its roots in the Latin word “contornare,” which means “to turn around.” This Latin word is derived from the verb “torner,” which means “to turn.”
The use of contour lines in art and geography dates back to ancient times, but the modern concept of contour as a three-dimensional shape or outline is a relatively recent development.
Usage Notes
The word “contour” can be used in various contexts, including art, architecture, geography, and engineering. It can be used to describe the shape and outline of an object, or the process of drawing or depicting an object.
In art, contour is often used to convey the shape and volume of an object. In geography, contour lines are used to represent the shape and elevation of the land on a map.
Cultural References
The word “contour” has appeared in various forms of media, including art, literature, and film. For example, the concept of contour is central to the art of drawing and painting, and is often used to describe the process of creating a two-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional object.
In literature, the word “contour” is used to describe the shape and outline of characters and settings in fiction.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“To contour the landscape” means to alter the shape and outline of the land, often to create a specific effect or design.
“A contour of the human eye” refers to the shape and outline of the human eye.
Collocations
Contour map: a map that shows the shape and elevation of the land using contour lines.
Contour drawing: a technique used in art to convey the shape and volume of an object.
Frequency of Use
The word “contour” is relatively common in technical and artistic contexts, but is less commonly used in everyday conversation.
According to Google Ngram Viewer, the word “contour” has been steadily increasing in usage since the mid-20th century.
Common Misspellings
contor
controur