Definition: outline

Source: WordNet (r) 1.7

outline
     n 1: the line that appears to bound an object
     2: a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or
        theory [syn: synopsis, abstract, precis, adumbration]
     3: a schematic or preliminary plan [syn: schema, scheme]
     v 1: describe roughly or briefly; "sketch the outline of the
          book" [syn: sketch, adumbrate]
     2: draw up an outline or sketch for something; "draft a speech"
        [syn: draft, rough]
     3: make a sketch of [syn: sketch, chalk out]
     4: trace the shape of [syn: delineate, limn]
     5: make a mark or lines on a surface; "draw a line"; "trace the
        outline of a figure in the sand" [syn: trace, draw, line,
         describe, delineate]
     6:  draw up the plans or basic details for; "frame a policy"
        [syn: frame, compose, draw up]

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Outline \Out"line`\, n.
   1.
      (a) The line which marks the outer limits of an object or
          figure; the exterior line or edge; contour.
      (b) In art: A line drawn by pencil, pen, graver, or the
          like, by which the boundary of a figure is indicated.
      (c) A sketch composed of such lines; the delineation of a
          figure without shading.

                Painters, by their outlines, colors, lights, and
                shadows, represent the same in their pictures.
                                                  --Dryden.

   2. Fig.: A sketch of any scheme; a preliminary or general
      indication of a plan, system, course of thought, etc.; as,
      the outline of a speech.

            But that larger grief . . . Is given in outline and
            no more.                              --Tennyson.

   Syn: Sketch; draught; delineation. See Sketch.

Outline \Out"line`\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Outlined; p. pr. &
   vb. n. Outlining.]
   1. To draw the outline of.

   2. Fig.: To sketch out or indicate as by an outline; as, to
      outline an argument or a campaign.