Outline /(?)/

1. The line which marks the outer limits of an object or figure; the exterior line or edge; contour.

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

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

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

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; to create a general framework of (a plan, system, discourse, course of thought), for which the details need to be added; as, to outline an argument or a campaign.