shape

¹shape

verb \ˈshāp\

shapedshap·ing

Definition of SHAPE

transitive verb

1

: form, create; especially : to give a particular form or shape to

2

obsolete : ordain, decree

3

: to adapt in shape so as to fit neatly and closely <a dress shaped to her figure>

4

a : devise, plan <shape a policy> b : to embody in definite form <shaping a folktale into an epic>

5

a : to make fit for (as a particular use or purpose) : adapt <shape the questions to fit the answers> b : to determine or direct the course or character of <events that shaped history> c : to modify (behavior) by rewarding changes that tend toward a desired response

intransitive verb

1

: to come to pass : happen <it's shaping up that I am known now for my husbands — Leslie Marmon Silko>

2

: to take on or approach a mature or definite form —often used with up <the summer is shaping up to be one of the hottest on record>

— shap·er noun

Examples of SHAPE

1. The artist shaped the stone with a hammer and chisel.
2. Schools shape the minds of future leaders.
3. Ads help shape public opinion.

Origin of SHAPE

Middle English, from Old English sceapen, gescapen, past participle of scieppan; akin to Old High German skepfen to shape

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to SHAPE

Synonyms: acclimate, acclimatize, accommodate, adjust, condition, conform, doctor, edit, fashion, fit, put, adapt, suit, tailor

Related Words: readapt, readjust; customize, gear, match, model, pattern; attune, correct, harmonize, square, tune; establish, root, settle; acquaint, familiarize, orient, orientate; equip, prepare, prime, rehearse; harden, inure, season, toughen; alter, convert, make over, modify, recast, reclaim, recycle, redesign, redevelop, redo, reengineer, refashion, refigure, refit, refocus, reinvent, rejigger, remake, remodel, revamp, revise, rework, transform; accustom, condition, habilitate, habituate, naturalize; ready, season; bend; fiddle (with), fine-tune, phase, register, regulate, rig

Near Antonyms: misadjust

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Rhymes with SHAPE

ape, cape, chape, crape, crepe, drape, gape, grape, jape, nape, rape, scape, scrape, tape