Silhouette Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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silhouette

[ˌsɪluːˈet ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

art

A dark shape on a light background that represents the outline of a person or object. Silhouettes are often used in art and photography to create striking images.

Synonyms

outline, profile, shadow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
silhouette	Used to describe the dark shape and outline of someone or something visible against a lighter background, especially in dim light. The silhouette of a tree stood out against the setting sun. She admired the silhouette of the mountain range from her window.
outline	Refers to the general shape or boundary of an object, often used when highlighting the main points or drawing a summary. He traced the outline of the country on the map. The artist began by sketching the outline of the figure.
profile	Used to describe the side view of someone's face or the general traits and characteristics of a person or thing. She recognized him by his distinctive profile. The magazine featured a profile of the famous actor.
shadow	Describes the dark area or shape produced by an object coming between rays of light and a surface, often associated with something ominous or with following someone closely. The cat chased its own shadow. He saw a shadow moving in the corner of the room. He felt like he was living in his brother's shadow.

Examples of usage

The artist created a beautiful silhouette of a tree against the sunset.
The photographer captured the silhouette of the city skyline at dusk.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

fashion

A style or image that is typically simple and striking, often in the form of a dark outline against a light background. Silhouettes in fashion refer to the overall shape or form of a garment.

Synonyms

figure, form, shape.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
silhouette	Used when describing the dark outline or shadow of something, especially in a backlit scenario. Common in art, photography, and descriptive writing. The silhouette of the mountains against the sunset was breathtaking She could barely make out his silhouette in the dim light
form	Denotes the structure, shape, or appearance of something. Often used in more abstract or artistic contexts, such as sculpture, design, or even grammar. The sculptor crafted the clay into a beautiful form The athlete's form was perfect during the race
figure	Refers to the human body or any memorable shape or formation. It can be used in contexts related to anatomy, geometry, and sometimes abstract representations. She has a slender figure A mysterious figure stood at the end of the hallway
shape	Describes the external outline or surface, and is commonly used in more general or physical contexts. Useful in everyday conversation related to objects, geometry, and design. The shape of the table is rectangular She noticed a peculiar shape in the clouds

Examples of usage

The designer's collection featured elegant silhouettes that accentuated the curves of the body.
She wore a classic black dress with a cinched waist, creating a flattering silhouette.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

photography

To create a silhouette in photography by positioning the subject in front of a bright light source, resulting in a dark outline against the light background.

Synonyms

feature, highlight, outline.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
silhouette	Use this word when describing the dark shape and outline of someone or something visible in restricted light against a brighter background. The artist painted the silhouette of the tree against the sunset. In the distance, we could see the silhouette of the mountains.
outline	This word is best used when describing the external form or boundary of an object, often detailed as a line or shape. She sketched the outline of the building before starting the detailed work. The outline of the proposal was presented to the committee.
highlight	Use this word to emphasize the most interesting or important part of something. The tour guide highlighted the ancient artifacts in the museum. The highlight of the concert was the final song.
feature	This word is ideal when talking about a distinctive attribute or aspect of something. The most noticeable feature of the new car is its sleek design. Her eyes are her most striking feature.

Examples of usage

She silhouetted the dancer against the setting sun for a dramatic effect.
The photographer decided to silhouette the flower against the sunset for a stunning photo.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'silhouette'

The word 'silhouette' originated from the name of Étienne de Silhouette, a French Minister of Finance known for his harsh economic policies. The term became associated with the practice of creating shadow profiles during his time. Over the years, 'silhouette' evolved to represent the dark outline or image of a person or object. Today, it is commonly used in art, photography, and fashion to describe distinct and striking shapes or forms.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,168, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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17165 disprove
17166 heretical
17167 intrude
17168 silhouette
17169 steed
17170 sighing
17171 sobriety
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