Contours

Contours refer to the outline or shape of something, especially the boundary or surface features of a form or object. This can apply to physical landscapes like mountains and valleys, the human body, or even abstract representations like graphs and artistic renderings. contours highlight the transitions, curves, and indentations that define the overall form and provide a sense of three-dimensionality. They are often used in cartography to depict elevation, in art to create depth and form, and in various fields to analyze and understand the shape and structure of objects and data. The study of contours involves observing and mapping the external boundaries to establish the physical appearance or outline.

Contours meaning with examples

• The artist carefully studied the model's contours, using light and shadow to capture the subtle curves of the face and body. The skilled use of shading along the form made the figure appear three-dimensional. She felt she could then transfer her skills of mapping this onto canvas.
• Hiking through the mountains, we traced the contours of the landscape, noting the sharp inclines and gentle slopes of the terrain. The hikers were challenged by these contours as they continued. The varying shapes of the hills and valleys were beautiful to observe.
• The map used contour lines to represent the elevation changes across the region, allowing us to easily identify the hills and valleys that define the area's contours. The closer the lines, the steeper the grade was likely to be. They aided in visualizing the terrain.
• The designer modified the contours of the new car's body to improve aerodynamics and give it a sleeker, more modern appearance. Their efforts provided increased speed and fuel efficiency by streamlining the car. The result showed in wind-tunnel testing.