as in to form
to take on a definite form
this group of summer interns is shaping up to be one of the best we've ever hired
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in to improve
to change one's behavior or character for the better
told his son that if he didn't shape up, he'd be grounded for a month
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of shape (up)
Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
The 2025 Governors Awards is shaping up to be a party for Dolly Parton.
—Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 17 June 2025
Indeed, the loaded NL West is shaping up to be MLB’s hottest attraction this summer.
—Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 17 June 2025
Now, the two horses and six others will meet in what is shaping up to be one of the more anticipated horse races of the year.
—Matt Richardson, CBS News, 7 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for shape (up)
Verb
But viewed through the right lens, this moment is shaping up to offer an asymmetrical upside for leaders who lean in.
—Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
The 2025 Governors Awards is shaping up to be a party for Dolly Parton.
—Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 17 June 2025
Indeed, the loaded NL West is shaping up to be MLB’s hottest attraction this summer.
—Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 17 June 2025
Now, the two horses and six others will meet in what is shaping up to be one of the more anticipated horse races of the year.
—Matt Richardson, CBS News, 7 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for shape (up)
Cite this Entry
“Shape (up).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shape%20%28up%29. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.
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