delineate

American  

[dih-lin-ee-eyt] / dɪˈlɪn iˌeɪt /

verb (used with object)

delineated, delineating

1. to trace the outline of; sketch or trace in outline; represent pictorially.

   He delineated the state of Texas on the map with a red pencil.

2. to portray in words; describe or outline with precision.

   In her speech she delineated the city plan with great care.

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delineate British  

/ dɪˈlɪnɪˌeɪt /

verb

1. to trace the shape or outline of; sketch

2. to represent pictorially, as by making a chart or diagram; depict

3. to portray in words, esp with detail and precision; describe

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Other Word Forms

• delineable
  adjective
• delineation
  noun
• delineative
  adjective
• predelineate
  verb (used with object)
• undelineable
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of delineate

First recorded in 1550–60; from Latin dēlīneātus, equivalent to dē- de- + līneātus lineate

Explanation

Though you pronounce it duh-LIN-ee-ate, there is a "line" in the middle of delineate. This might help you remember that to delineate is to outline and define something in detail or with an actual marking of lines and boundaries. When you create an outline for a paper it usually summarizes what you will detail later. You delineate the sections, or mark the heading lines, and when you write the details, you delineate the subject of each heading. So, to delineate is both to mark lines and to fill in the lines. Using a fence to divide properties or a carpet to claim your side of the bedroom also is a way to delineate, or mark, physical boundaries.

Example Sentences

Delineate the difference between pop and rock for me.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 5, 2025

"Stranger! that e'er thy hospitable roof Ulysses graced, confirm by faithful proof; Delineate to my view my warlike lord, His form, his habit, and his train record."

From The Odyssey by Pope, Alexander

Then, glorious Chief! the Prophet shall himself Appear, who will instruct thee, and thy course Delineate, measuring from place to place Thy whole return athwart the fishy flood.

From The Odyssey of Homer by Cowper, William

Delineate, de-lin′e-āt, v.t. to mark out with lines: to represent by a sketch or picture: to portray: to describe accurately in words.—adj.

From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 1 of 4: A-D) by Various

Delineate in your own way, as you are led on your own Patmos, the picture of our land redeemed.

From The Art of the Moving Picture by Lindsay, Vachel

Related Words

• define
• depict
• lay out
• limn