Meaning of Word
Silhouette refers to the outline or shape of something, typically seen as a dark figure or image against a lighter background. It can also refer to a depiction or representation in which only the outline is visible, often in a solid color.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- A dark shape or outline of a person or object, typically seen against a lighter background.
- A representation or image that shows only the outline or profile of a subject, without detail.
- The general shape or form of something, seen in shadow or profile.
History and Origin
The term silhouette originates from the French word silhouette, which referred to a portrait or profile created by cutting out black paper or ink. It was named after Étienne de Silhouette, a French finance minister in the 18th century, who was associated with inexpensive, simple portraiture. The term eventually came to describe any simple, shadow-like outline of an object or person, and it became popular in artistic and photographic contexts.
Detailed Explanation
A silhouette is often created by casting light behind an object or person, resulting in a darkened outline without detailed features. This effect emphasizes the shape or profile of the subject rather than the internal details. The technique is often used in art, photography, and design to create striking, minimalist representations. Silhouettes are commonly seen in artistic portraits, where a person’s profile is shown against a bright background, but the term can also apply to any shadow-like image. In broader usage, it can also describe the general shape or outline of anything, even in a non-artistic context.
Example Sentences
- The silhouette of the tree against the setting sun was breathtaking.
- The artist carefully traced her face to create a simple silhouette.
- From a distance, the silhouette of the mountain looked like a giant figure.
- The dancer’s silhouette was visible through the frosted glass.
- He stood in the doorway, his silhouette framed by the light from the hallway.
- The silhouette of the bird in flight was captured against the orange sky.
- The photograph featured the silhouette of a couple walking along the beach at dusk.
- As the sun set, their silhouettes became more pronounced against the glowing horizon.
- The silhouette of the building was visible against the cloudy sky.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Outline – The basic or outer edge of something, typically seen as a contour.
- Profile – A side view or outline of something, especially a person’s face.
- Shadow – The dark shape created when an object blocks light, often resembling a silhouette.
- Contour – The shape or outline of something, particularly when it’s defined by its boundaries.
- Shape – The form or structure of something, often used to describe an outline.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Contrast – The difference in color, light, or tone between objects, which often makes silhouettes more distinct.
- Shadowing – The use of light and dark contrasts to create a silhouette-like effect.
- Backlighting – Lighting a subject from behind, often used to create a silhouette.
- Profiled – The action of showing the side view or outline of something, typically in an artistic context.
- Outline drawing – A type of drawing that emphasizes the shape or border of an object, similar to a silhouette.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Cutout – A shape or image cut from a solid material, often used in reference to silhouettes.
- Stencil – A template used to create an outline or shape, similar to the effect of a silhouette.
- Imagery – Descriptive language or visual representations that often include silhouettes in artistic works.
- Minimalism – An art style that may use silhouettes to emphasize simplicity and form.
- Vignette – A brief scene or visual image, sometimes involving silhouettes, with a focus on shape and tone.
Antonyms
- Detail
- Full view
- Clarity
- Revelation
- Exposure