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.
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.