skyline
UK[ˈskaɪlaɪn]US[ˈskaɪlaɪn]
n
The outline of buildings, mountains, etc., seen against the sky, especially in a city.
Morpheme Breakdown
sky
line
sky
line
Etymology
The word 'skyline' is a transparent compound formed within Modern English from two native Germanic roots. 'Sky' entered English from Old Norse, originally meaning 'cloud', before its meaning shifted to denote the celestial dome. 'Line' derives from the Old English word for a cord or series, evolving to mean a contour or boundary. When combined in the early 19th century, the term literally described the line or silhouette where terrestrial objects meet the sky. This logical, pictorial construction perfectly captures the visual phenomenon of a city's architectural profile etched against the heavens.
Analysis
Structure: sky + line
- sky: Origin: Old Norse 'ský' (cloud). Role: Noun root, the object being outlined.
- line: Origin: Old English 'līne' (cord, series). Role: Noun root, forming a boundary or contour.
Examples
The Manhattan skyline is one of the most recognizable in the world.
We watched the sunset behind the dramatic skyline of mountains.
The new skyscraper will permanently alter the city's skyline.