Contour Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ณ
contour
[หkษn.tสษr ]
Definitions
shape outline
A contour refers to the outline or shape of an object. It captures the outer boundary that defines a specific form, whether in drawing, design, or in geographical landscapes.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The artist traced the contour of the mountain.
- The dress designer focused on the contours of the human body.
- The map showed the contours of the terrain.
define shape
To contour means to shape or mold something, often in a way that follows the outline or form of a surface. In makeup, it involves using darker shades to create shadows on the face.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She learned how to contour her face for a more defined look.
- The sculptor contoured the clay to resemble the desired figure.
- He contoured the edges of the design in his architectural plan.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- In geography, contours are used to represent elevation on maps, showing how steep or flat the land is.
- Contour lines never cross on a map; each line represents a specific elevation, helping hikers navigate hills.
- Hydraulic engineers use contour lines to help design water flow systems, ensuring that they work with the landโs shape.
Art
- In art, contour drawing focuses on capturing the outline of a subject without losing sight of its form.
- Artists from different cultures often use contour techniques to depict the essence of their subjects.
- Contouring is also a makeup technique used to enhance or alter the shape of one's face.
Psychology
- Contours can affect perception; people tend to follow lines and shapes that guide their attention.
- Research shows that individuals can identify objects faster when they are presented in a familiar contour.
- The human brain processes contour lines in images in a way that aids in making sense of complex visuals.
Architecture
- Architects often incorporate contour lines in their blueprints to reflect the natural landscape in their designs.
- In modern architecture, contouring is used to create dynamic, flowing structures that harmonize with their environment.
- The concept of contour in architecture allows buildings to adapt to and shape their surroundings innovatively.
Origin of 'contour'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the French word 'contour', which means 'to outline' or 'to draw'.
- It originated in the 1700s and was first used in the context of drawing and painting.
- In the early French use, it was associated with forming shapes in art as much as in cartography.
The word 'contour' originates from the Latin word 'contourus,' which means 'to draw together'โcomposed of 'con' meaning 'together' and 'tornare,' meaning 'to turn.' This essence of shaping or turning into a specific form gradually evolved into its modern usage in the 19th century, particularly in art and design contexts. Initially used predominantly in painting and drafting, the term extended into various fields, including makeup artistry and fashion, highlighting its versatile usage. The relationship to 'turning' emphasizes the dynamic nature of contouring as it relates to defining shapes and outlines in physical and visual expressions.