kontuurjoon

Kontuurjoon is a Finnish term that translates to "contour line" or "outline" in English. In its most common usage, it refers to a line on a map or chart that connects points of equal elevation above sea level. These lines are fundamental to topographic maps, allowing users to visualize the shape and steepness of the land. The closer the contour lines are to each other, the steeper the terrain. Conversely, widely spaced lines indicate a gentle slope.

Beyond cartography, "kontuurjoon" can also describe the visible boundary or outline of an object. This might be seen in art, where an artist uses a kontuurjoon to define the shape of a subject, or in design, where it represents the external form of an object. In technical contexts, it can refer to the profile or silhouette of a manufactured item. The concept emphasizes the external demarcation, separating one area or object from its surroundings.