plural shapes
1
: the form or outline of an object
circles, squares, triangles, and other geometric shapes
The cake has a rectangular/circular shape.
The pieces came in many different sizes and shapes.
a cookie in the shape of a heart [=a cookie shaped like a heart]
The cloud took the shape of a dog. [=the cloud looked like a dog]
The pieces were sorted by size and shape.
The cloud kept changing shape.
The cake was rectangular/circular in shape.
The bike's rim was bent out of shape. [=it was bent so that it was not its usual round shape]
2
a
: the condition of something or someone
—usually used with in
The car was in good/bad/poor shape.
He's in better/worse shape now.
All the players are in top/excellent shape.
She has had quite a few glasses of wine and is in no shape to drive. [=she shouldn't drive because she has drunk too much wine]
Their marriage is in bad/good shape.
b
: a physically strong and healthy condition
I need to start exercising and get back in shape.
I'm out of shape because I haven't been exercising.
The players were in poor condition, but the coach quickly whipped/licked/knocked/got them into shape.
She stays/keeps in shape by exercising daily and eating well.
—often used figurativelyIt will cost billions of dollars to get the company back in shape. [=back into good condition]
3
: the way something is done : the form of something
Computer technology has changed the shape of communication.
They offered help in the shape of [=in the form of] a loan. [=the help they offered was a loan]
That behavior is not acceptable in any way, shape, or form. [=it is not at all acceptable]
Another newspaper has stopped publication. Is this the shape of things to come in the newspaper business? [=is this what the future of the newspaper business is going to be like?]
4
: a definite form or arrangement of something
The plan is finally taking shape.
His discussions with fellow professors and his students gave shape to his book.
5
: a person or thing that cannot be seen clearly
I saw a vague shape [=figure] in the dark.
dark shapes moving in the shadows
shapes; shaped; shaping
1
: to give a particular form or shape to (something) : to work with (a material) in order to make something from it
The artist shaped the stone with a hammer and chisel.
—often + intoShape the dough into loaves.
2
: to influence the development of (something) : to help (something) become what it is
Schools shape the minds of future leaders.
Ads help shape public opinion.
3
: to make (something, such as a plan) by a process of careful thought
They have shaped [=devised] a careful strategy for winning the election.
Cite this Entry
“Shape.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/shape. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
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