Wiktionary(0.00 / 0 votes)Rate this definition: outline(Noun) A line marking the boundary of an object figure. outline(Noun) The outer shape of an object or figure. outline(Noun) A sketch or drawing in which objects are delineated in contours without shading.
At the time Paine wrote those words, it looked like we would lose the American Revolution, and some people were walking away because times were getting tough. By saying These are the times that try [or test] men's souls, he was saying This is how we'll see what your spirit is really made of..HOMAS Paine's These are the times that test men's souls... I would lke to know what exactly does this quote mean, and also if I could get examples of it whether in your personal or public life. Thanks!
 THE AMERICAN CRISIS. (1776-77). These are the times that try men's souls..  THE RIGHTS OF MAN. (1791-92). Paine's reply to an attack on the French Revolution by Edmund Burke.  AGE OF REASON. (1794, 1795, 1807). Paine's biting Deist criticism of the Bible and the church. In three parts.1776-77). These are the times that try men's souls..  THE RIGHTS OF MAN. (1791-92). Paine's reply to an attack on the French Revolution by Edmund Burke.  AGE OF REASON. (1794, 1795, 1807). Paine's biting Deist criticism of the Bible and the church. In three parts.