take shape

idiomatic phrase

: to assume a definite or distinctive form : to develop and become apparent or established
The plan is finally taking shape.
Edison's tireless work habits took shape during his childhood …Paul Gray
The proto-planetary fragments crashed together, coalesced by gravity, and crashed again into other fragments, until they gradually took shape as the planets we know today.M. Mitchell Waldrop
… the first half of the century, before the modern medical system took shape.Geoffrey Cowley

Examples of take shape in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That first took shape with Pen Mané’s fine jewelry offering launched in March, born from Guy-Raffin’s desire to make a solid gold bangle for himself. Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 14 Nov. 2025 But beneath the pomp, what’s really at stake is Riyadh’s role in the new regional security architecture taking shape across the Middle East. semafor.com, 14 Nov. 2025 Thanksgiving plans are starting to take shape across North Texas, from travel itineraries to backyard feasts. Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Nov. 2025 Just a day before the game takes center stage the latest on the Florida coaching search is taking shape with a notable update from college football insiders Bruce Feldman and Ralph Russo of The Athletic. Andrew McCarty, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for take shape

Word History

First Known Use

1560, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of take shape was in 1560

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Cite this Entry

“Take shape.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20shape. Accessed 23 Nov. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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