Esquisse is a French word that means a preliminary sketch or outline of a work of art. Some of the synonyms for esquisse are sketch, draft, preliminary drawing, outline, and rough copy. A sketch refers to a brief and incomplete drawing, while a draft is a preliminary version of a written work. Preliminary drawing and outline refer to a plan or design before the actual creation of an artwork. Lastly, a rough copy focuses on the initial version of a written work that needs editing and refinement. These synonyms for esquisse are useful for artists and writers alike, providing a way to describe the early stages of their creative process.