English Reference
verb · adjective

outlined

v. · adj.
US /ˈaʊtˌɫaɪnd/ UK /ˈaʊtlaɪnd/ out·lined

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    v.to give a short description of the main parts of an idea or plan.

    v.to provide a summary of the principal features or general principles of a proposal or argument.

    Simple

    The manager outlined the new project goals during the morning meeting.

    In context

    The prime minister outlined a comprehensive strategy for economic recovery, focusing on infrastructure investment and tax reform for small businesses.

    Usage

    Often used in formal or professional contexts to introduce a summary.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to draw the outer edge or shape of something.

    v.to trace or draw the exterior line or contour of an object.

    Simple

    She outlined the shape of her hand on the paper with a pencil.

    In context

    The artist outlined the figures in charcoal before applying the first layers of oil paint to the canvas.

    tracedcontoureddelineated
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    adj.having a line around the outside edge.

    adj.characterised by a visible border or contour line, often used in graphic design or typography.

    Simple

    The poster used large outlined letters that were easy to read from far away.

    In context

    The designer opted for outlined fonts to ensure the text remained legible against the busy photographic background.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the context of digital fonts and vector graphics.

    borderedcontoured

He's also outlined a vision for moving industry off Earth, most immediately to the Moon .

Phys.org· 15 Aug 2026

We cannot let the virus outrun our response,” Fletcher said as he outlined the latest efforts to contain the virus.

Al Jazeera· 17 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated