In English vocabulary, choose the word that means an outline representing or bounding the shape or form of something.

Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary question gives you a definition and asks you to choose the word that matches it. The definition is an outline representing or bounding the shape or form of something. Many competitive exams test such meaning based questions to check whether candidates can connect precise definitions with appropriate technical or semi technical terms.

Given Data / Assumptions:

The definition focuses on an outline that shows the shape or boundary of an object.
Options are tracery, contour, doodle, and pattern.
We are looking for the most accurate match for the definition provided.

Concept / Approach:
Contour is the term used to describe the outline or shape of something, for example the contour of a hill or the contour of a face. It directly matches the idea of a bounding line that defines form. Tracery refers to decorative stonework in the upper part of a Gothic window, with branching patterns. Doodle means a rough or aimless drawing made while one is thinking of something else. Pattern is a broader term for a repeated decorative design or arrangement. Therefore, contour is the only option that exactly fits the narrow definition of an outline representing or bounding shape.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on the key words in the definition: outline and bounding the shape or form of something. Step 2: Recall that contour is commonly used in geography, art, and anatomy to describe lines that mark the limits of shape. Step 3: Compare this with tracery, which deals with detailed ornamental stone or metal patterns in architecture, not simple outlines. Step 4: Consider doodle, which refers to a casual, often meaningless drawing and does not emphasise precise boundaries or form. Step 5: Examine pattern, which describes repeated decorative designs and arrangements rather than a single outline, and therefore select contour.

Verification / Alternative check:
Use the word in a sentence that matches the definition. For example, The artist sketched the contour of the mountain range before adding details. Here, contour clearly refers to the outline. Tracery would not fit this sentence. Doodle would imply a casual or playful drawing, not a careful boundary line. Pattern would suggest repetition rather than a single surrounding outline. Dictionaries also define contour as the outline of a figure or body, confirming that it is the correct match for the definition given in the question.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A tracery describes elaborate stonework or ornamental lines, not a basic bounding outline of shape. Option C doodle refers to an aimless or rough drawing and does not emphasise accurate shape or boundary. Option D pattern usually refers to repeated decorative designs and is more general than an outline, so it does not match the precise definition.

Common Pitfalls:
A common error is to pick pattern because it seems broadly related to shape and design. However, the definition specifically mentions an outline, which is a key clue that the term is contour. Another difficulty is that students may not be familiar with tracery and assume that any unfamiliar technical word is correct. Building vocabulary by reading varied materials and noting context for new words helps you avoid such guesswork and choose the answer that precisely matches the definition.

Final Answer:
contour