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

Once production began in Louisiana in the spring of 2024, Jordan relied on Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter to delineate the twins from the outside in.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 22, 2025

You can delineate these bequests in a will or in a trust, but either way, the designated administrator becomes responsible for distributing the items and can be held accountable if things go missing.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 21, 2025

The five charts below delineate risks to the labor market, but also illustrate some positive points.

From Barron's • Nov. 10, 2025

But much of the border, especially in northeastern New York, is flat and barren, dotted with just woods or open fields where simple stone markers delineate the boundary.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 12, 2024

The definition neglects to mention the maps, the ones that delineate the return trip to normal or the site of the sunken treasure.

From "Burning Blue" by Paul Griffin

Related Words

• define
• depict
• lay out
• limn