The meaning of CONTOUR is an outline especially of a curving or irregular figure : shape; also : the line representing this outline. How to use contour in a sentence. What is contouring in Surveying? Contouring in surveying is the determination of elevation of various points on the ground and fixing these points of same horizontal positions in the contour map. To exercise vertical control leveling work is carried out and simultaneously ... A level set is a generalization of a contour line for functions of any number of variables. Contour lines are curved, straight or a mixture of both lines on a map describing the intersection of a real or hypothetical surface with one or more horizontal planes. A contour is an imaginary line on the ground joining the point having equal elevation or a line joining the points of the same elevation is known as a contour line. A map or plan representing a three-dimensional picture of the ground with the help of the contour line is called a contour map or plan. What is Contour Gradient? A line laying on the ground which maintains a constant inclination to the horizontal is known as contour gradient. It is found out by instrument clinometer.