Contour
/ˈkɒn.tʊə(r)/noun
The outline or boundary of a shape, figure, or surface.
Did you know?Contour entered English through French contourner, a verb meaning “to go around” or “turn around,” linking the modern word to the ancient craft of turning material on a lathe.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
τόρνος (tórnos)
“A lathe or compass used for turning and drawing circular forms.”
Classical Latin
Latin
tornāre
“To turn on a lathe or shape by turning.”
12th–13th Century
Old French
torner
“To turn, rotate, or go around.”
13th Century
Old French
contourner
“To go around, turn around, or trace around.”
16th Century
French
contour
“An outline or boundary traced around something.”
17th Century
English
contour
“The outline of a body, figure, or surface.”
Explore more surprising origins