shaped; shaping
Definition of shape
(Entry 1 of 2)
3 : to adapt in shape so as to fit neatly and closely
a dress shaped to her figure
5a : to make fit for (a particular use, purpose, etc.) : 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
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 upthe summer is shaping up to be one of the hottest on record
shape
nounDefinition of shape (Entry 2 of 2)
1a : the visible makeup characteristic of a particular item or kind of item
a cake in the shape of a Christmas tree
b(1) : spatial form or contour
the clouds kept changing shape
(2) : a standard or universally recognized spatial form
a stain in the shape of a perfect circle
2 : the appearance of the body as distinguished from that of the face : figure
3a : phantom, apparition eerie shapes floating in the mist
b : assumed appearance : guise a trick-or-treater in the shape of a pumpkin
4 : form of embodiment
our plans are taking shape
5 : a mode of existence or form of being having identifying features
7 : the condition in which someone or something exists at a particular time
the car was in fine shape
in shape
: in an original, normal, or fit condition
exercises to keep in shape
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Time Traveler for shape
The first known use of shape was before the 12th century
See more words from the same century