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.
Safilo’s innovative approach takes shape in a digital transformation strategy aimed at improving the relationship with customers and stakeholders in general, who value high-quality products and authentic brand experiences. Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 19 Dec. 2025 There are still many unknowns about how the refund process will take shape should the tariffs be invalidated, Oleynik said—especially if some tariffs have already been liquidated and others have not. Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 18 Dec. 2025 Within the next few months, a major construction project in the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District will begin to take shape. Janice Phelan, Kansas City Star, 18 Dec. 2025 Something new is now taking shape on the factory floors. Norbert Jung, Fortune, 17 Dec. 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 Dec. 2025.

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