skyline
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.the shape of a city's buildings against the sky.
n.the outline or silhouette of a city's buildings, especially skyscrapers, as seen against the sky.
Simple“The New York skyline is famous for its tall skyscrapers and bright lights.”
In context“From the observation deck, the city skyline stretched across the horizon, dominated by the glass towers of the financial district.”
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.the line where the sky seems to touch the land or the sea.
n.the apparent boundary between the earth and the sky; the horizon.
Simple“The sun began to disappear below the desert skyline.”
In context“The jagged peaks of the mountain range formed a dramatic skyline that defined the northern edge of the valley.”
Teacher's tipIn modern English, 'horizon' is much more common for this sense; 'skyline' is usually reserved for cities or mountains.
Synonyms - 03 C2 Proficiency
v.to show the shape of something clearly against the sky.
v.to cause an object or person to be seen as a silhouette against the sky.
Simple“The lone tree was skylined against the bright orange sunset.”
In context“The soldiers were careful not to move along the ridge, as they did not want to be skylined and become easy targets for the enemy.”
UsageOften used in the passive voice.
Teacher's tipThis verb use is rare outside of military or artistic contexts.
Synonyms