Spell Bee Word: contour

Basic Details

Word: Contour

Part of Speech: Noun

Meaning: The outline or shape of something, especially when seen from the side.

Synonyms: Outline, shape, silhouette

Antonyms: Interior, centre

Idioms and Phrases

1. Know the lay of the land: To understand the situation completely. Example: "Before starting the project, we need to know the lay of the land and the contours of our tasks."
2. Draw the line: To set a limit or boundary. Example: "When it comes to honesty, I draw the line and maintain the contour of my values."

Usage Examples

Example 1: The contour of the mountain was beautiful under the setting sun.

Example 2: The artist carefully traced the contour of her subject to create an accurate drawing.

Example 3: Understanding the contour of the landscape helped the hikers find the best path.

Fun Fact

The term "contour" comes from the French word "contourner," which means "to curve around." It has been used in art and geography for centuries to describe shapes and outlines.

Famous Quote

"Every act of creation is first an act of destruction." Pablo Picasso - This reflects the idea that to create a new contour in art, one must often destroy previous forms.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What does "contour" mean?

a) The colour of something
b) The outline or shape of something
c) The size of something
d) A type of material

Answer: b) The outline or shape of something

2. Which of these is a synonym of "contour"?

a) Colour
b) Shape
c) Texture
d) Age

Answer: b) Shape

3. Which sentence uses "contour" correctly?

a) The contour of the cake was decorated with icing.
b) I sen t my contour to the shop.
c) The contour jumped over the wall.
d) Can you find the contour on the shelf?

Answer: a) The contour of the cake was decorated with icing.

4. Which idiom means understanding something well?

a) Know the lay of the land
b) Draw the line
c) A picture paints a thousand words
d) As honest as the day is long

Answer: a) Know the lay of the land

5. What is the opposite of "contour"?

a) Shape
b) Outline
c) Centre
d) Line

Answer: c) Centre