contour
n. countable B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈkɑnˌtʊɹ// UK //kˈɒntɔː// con·tour
n. the shape or outline of something's surface. You use this to describe the curves of a landscape or the lines of a person's face.
n. the outline or outer edge of a physical shape or surface. In linguistics, refers to the distinctive pitch pattern of an utterance.
The map shows the contour of the hills.
The artist used soft shadows to define the contour of the model's face in the portrait.
By following the natural contour of the valley, the ancient road avoids the steepest inclines while providing travelers with a clear view of the river below.
Borrowed from French contour, from contourner, equivalent to con- + tour.
Usage
Often used in the plural ('contours') when describing complex shapes or landscapes.