delineate

to describe or mark out clearly

Roots

  • de-: down, away, reversal, reduction, or removal
  • line / lin: line, outline, or mark clearly

Other words with the line / lin root

  • line: a long mark or boundary
  • outline: a line around the shape or main idea

Delineate means draw the lines clearly enough for the shape or idea to stand apart.

The report delineated each team's responsibility before the project began.

Delineate is not just describe. It carries a line-making image: mark the outline, separate one part from another, and make the form clear.

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