tracing
5 synonyms for tracing, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A copy of a drawing made by following its outlines through transparent paper.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
This word comes from Middle English tracyng, made up of trace and -ing.
Full origin of tracing →Frequently asked questions
What does “tracing” mean?
The word “tracing” means a copy of a drawing made by following its outlines through transparent paper. In plain terms, a copy made by drawing over an original through thin paper, or a line recorded by a measuring device.
How do you pronounce “tracing”?
“Tracing” is pronounced TRAY-sihng (/ˈtɹeɪsɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “tracing” in a sentence?
Here is “tracing” used in a sentence: “She made a tracing of the map to use for her presentation.”
What part of speech is “tracing”?
“Tracing” is a noun.
Is “tracing” a common word?
“Tracing” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “tracing” have?
“Tracing” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a copy of a drawing made by following its outlines through transparent paper.
What is the difference between a tracing and a drawing?
A tracing is a copy made by following the outlines of an existing image through transparent paper, so it reproduces the original rather than being created freehand. A drawing is an original creation made without copying another image's outlines.
What does tracing mean in a medical context?
In medicine, a tracing refers to a recorded line or pattern produced by an instrument, such as the line generated by a heart monitor showing electrical activity over time.
What materials are typically used to make a tracing?
A tracing is typically made using transparent paper placed over an original image, allowing the outlines to be copied through directly onto the new sheet.
