joonistama

Joonistama is an Estonian verb meaning to draw, sketch, or draft. It can refer to creating a picture with lines using artistic tools, as well as producing diagrams, maps, or plans. The verb covers both artistic drawing and technical or preparatory drafting.

Etymology and scope: Joonistama derives from the noun joonis, meaning a drawing or diagram, with the common -ama verb ending. It is used across contexts—from creating a portrait or illustration to outlining a plan or schematic. This flexibility makes it the standard term for both art and design activities in Estonian.

Usage and examples: In everyday language, you might say, ma joonistan pildi (I am drawing a picture) or ta joonistab kaarti (he draws a map/diagram). When planning, people may use it in the sense of drafting or outlining, for example, me joonistame plaani (we draft a plan). The verb is transitive and takes a direct object, such as pildi, kaardi, or plaani. Conjugation follows the regular pattern of Estonian -ta/-tama verbs: ma joonistan, sa joonistad, ta joonistab; ma joonistasin, me joonistasime, etc.

See also: Related nouns include joonis (drawing, diagram) and joonistus (a draft or plan). The term is widely used in education, art, design, and technical contexts to describe the act of creating drawings or plans.