Silhouette
/ˌsɪl.əˈwɛt/noun
A dark shape or outline of a person or object against a lighter background.
Did you know?The term 'silhouette' derives from the name of French finance minister Étienne de Silhouette, known for his severe economy measures, leading to the association of his name with the stark outlines of cut-paper portraits.
Etymological Timeline
18th Century
French
silhouette
“A term coined to describe portraits outlined against a light background, often in the style of cut paper.”
1760s
French
silhouette
“Named after Étienne de Silhouette, symbolizing the austerity of his economic policies.”
Late 18th Century
English
silhouette
“Adopted into English to describe the stark, shadowy outlines typical of the portraits.”
19th Century
English
silhouette
“Became a popular artistic technique, representing not just wealth but also mystery and the ephemeral nature of life.”
Modern English
English
silhouette
“Commonly used to describe any dark shape or outline, especially in art and photography.”