Synonyms of delineate

delineate

verb

di-ˈli-nē-ˌāt 

1

as in to trace

to draw or make apparent the outline of

the man's roly-poly shape was softly delineated by the glow of the fire

Synonyms & Similar Words

• trace
• define
• outline
• sketch
• surround
• trim
• circle
• bound
• silhouette
• round
• line
• margin
• draw
• fringe
• encircle
• frame
• rim
• edge
• loop
• hem
• chart
• ring
• skirt
• map (out)
• compass
• diagram
• girth
• girdle

2

as in to describe

to give a representation or account of in words

the story does a remarkable job of delineating the emotions that immigrants feel upon their arrival in a strange country

Synonyms & Similar Words

• describe
• depict
• portray
• characterize
• render
• define
• paint
• illustrate
• set out
• represent
• sketch
• limn
• draw
• outline
• summarize
• image
• picture
• relate
• demonstrate
• recount
• tell
• suggest
• show
• qualify
• display
• narrate
• trace
• report
• exhibit
• label
• recite
• hint
• rehearse
• sum up
• draft
• redescribe
• vignette
• silhouette
• touch off
• reimage

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• distort
• misrepresent
• falsify
• color
• misstate
• warp
• twist
• pervert
• misdescribe
• garble

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of delineate

More importantly, part two closes an emotional circle that the first one had just begun to delineate. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 4 Sep. 2026

For example, the Commonwealth has never delineated the exact interval of time between Patrick leaving the home and Clancy falling out the window. — Jessica Winter, New Yorker, 22 Aug. 2026

Affordable concrete pavers from the hardware store and gravel delineate the area. — Stephen Orr, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 July 2026

The magnetic pull for those whose ultimate prize is privacy and connection to nature is towards gardens, forests, fields and beachfronts that stretch into the distance, delineating possibilities. — Nielsen Dinwoodie, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026