Definition

1. Noun:

   • The external form, contours, or outline of someone or something: The physical configuration or appearance of an object.
   • A geometric figure: A specific form defined by its spatial properties, such as a square, circle, or triangle.
   • The condition or state of something, especially regarding fitness or order: A particular state of being, often relating to health or organization.
   • A definite or orderly arrangement: The way in which parts are arranged or organized to form a whole.

2. Verb:

   • To give a particular form or shape to something: To mold, form, or create something into a specific configuration.
   • To influence the development or nature of something: To have a significant effect on the formation or direction of something.
   • To take on a particular form; to develop: To come into being or to develop in a certain way.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:

  • The shape of the vase was elegant and curved.
  • Geometry is the study of points, lines, and shapes.
  • She exercises regularly to stay in good shape.
  • The project is finally taking shape.

• Verb:

  • The potter shaped the clay into a beautiful bowl.
  • His early experiences shaped his worldview.
  • Our plans for the new park are beginning to shape up nicely.

Advanced Usage

• "In shape": In good physical condition.

  • He runs every day to stay in shape.

• "Take shape": To begin to develop or become clear.

  • The new policy is starting to take shape after months of discussion.

• "Shape up": To improve one's behavior, performance, or condition.

  • If your work doesn't shape up, you could lose your job.

Variants and Related Words

• Shapeless (adj): Lacking a definite or attractive shape.

  • The melted candle was a shapeless blob.

• Shapely (adj): Having an attractive or pleasing shape, often used for the human body.

  • She has shapely legs.

• Shaping (n): The action or process of giving something a shape.

  • The shaping of public opinion is a complex process.

Synonyms

• Form (n/v): The visible shape or configuration of something; to constitute or make up.
• Structure (n): The arrangement of and relations between the parts or elements of something complex.
• Mold (v): To form (an object) out of a soft substance.
• Influence (v): To have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Shape up: To develop or progress in a certain way; to improve.

  • The team needs to shape up if they want to win the championship.

• Shape into: To develop or transform into a particular form or state.

  • The raw idea slowly shaped into a detailed plan.

Related Idioms

• Bend something out of shape: To distort or deform something; (figuratively) to become very upset.

  • Don't bend the key out of shape. / He got bent out of shape over a minor criticism.

• Knock something into shape: To improve or organize something so that it functions properly.

  • We have a week to knock this draft report into shape.

Noun

1. a perceptual structure
   • the composition presents problems for students of musical form
   • a visual pattern must include not only objects but the spaces between them
2. the supreme headquarters that advises NATO on military matters and oversees all aspects of the Allied Command Europe
3. the state of (good) health (especially in the phrases `in condition' or `in shape' or `out of condition' or `out of shape')
4. the visual appearance of something or someone
   • the delicate cast of his features
5. a concrete representation of an otherwise nebulous concept
   • a circle was the embodiment of his concept of life
6. alternative names for the body of a human being
   • Leonardo studied the human body
   • he has a strong physique
   • the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak
7. the spatial arrangement of something as distinct from its substance
   • geometry is the mathematical science of shape
8. any spatial attributes (especially as defined by outline)
   • he could barely make out their shapes

Verb

1. give shape or form to
   • shape the dough
   • form the young child's character
2. make something, usually for a specific function
   • She molded the rice balls carefully
   • Form cylinders from the dough
   • shape a figure
   • Work the metal into a sword
3. shape or influence; give direction to
   • experience often determines ability
   • mold public opinion