\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}.

\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.