1. A constructed drawing or painting that is often made as a preliminary presentation of something in greater detail: The artists made several sketches before starting their final paintings.
2. A rough design that indicates what can be done: The construction contractor of the commercial building considered the basic suggestions in the architect's sketch.
3. A summary or preliminary draft: The budget committee gave the governor a sketch of the longer tax-deficit report.

1. To draw or to illustrate outlines of designs, scenes, etc.: In the park, artists were sketching or making quick drawings of trees and other aspects of nature.
2. To describe or to summarize something: The article in the magazine sketched the recent international events and how they were influencing the economies of several nations.