Sketch

Definition

Sketch primarily refers to a rough or unfinished drawing or painting, often made to assist in making a more detailed composition. It can also refer to a brief written or spoken account or description of someone or something, giving a preliminary or rough idea.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /skɛtʃ/
• Respelling: SKETCH (with "SKETCH" rhyming with "fetch" and "stretch")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /skɛtʃ/
• Respelling: SKETCH (similar to American English, with "SKETCH" rhyming with "fetch" and "stretch")

In both dialects, "sketch" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, as in "fetch" or "stretch." The pronunciation of "sketch" is consistent between American and British English, reflecting the word's straightforward phonetic structure.

Etymology

The word "sketch" originated from the Italian word "schizzo" which means a splash or a squirt, deriving from the Latin word "schedium" meaning "an extemporaneous poem", from Greek "skhedios" which means "temporary" or "extemporary."

Derivatives

• Sketcher
• Sketching
• Sketchbook
• Sketchy
• Sketched

Synonyms

• Draft
• Outline
• Doodle

Antonyms

• Masterpiece
• Final Version
• Completed Work

Usage

"Sketch" is commonly used in art, design, and literature to describe a preliminary or rough version of a work. It's also used in comedy to describe a short humorous play or performance.

Related Terms

• Thumbnail
• Rendering
• Blueprint

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Preliminary Drawing: A rough drawing representing the chief features of an object or scene and often made as a preliminary study.
• Example: The artist created a quick sketch before starting the final painting.

• Brief Description: A brief written or spoken account or description giving a preliminary or rough idea.
• Example: The author gave a sketch of the plot during the interview.

Verb

• To Draw: To make a sketch of; to draw a rough outline of.
• Example: She sketched the landscape that she saw during her trip.

• To Describe Briefly: To give a brief account or description.
• Example: He sketched his plans for the new business venture.