Synonyms of shape (up)

shape (up) 1 of 2

verb (1)

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

• form
• crystallize
• connect
• solidify
• link (up)
• crystalize
• join
• jell
• combine
• cohere
• fuse
• couple
• coalesce
• unite
• unify
• associate
• conjugate
• conjoin

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• break down
• decay
• decompose
• disintegrate

shape up

2 of 2

verb (2)

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• improve
• straighten (up or out)
• behave
• amend
• better
• clean up one's act
• reform
• regenerate
• mend

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• regress
• backslide

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of shape (up)

Verb

But next year is shaping up to be a little better for homebuyers everywhere, as mortgage rates are trending down and many markets—especially in the Sun Belt—are shifting in favor of buyers. —Giulia Carbonaro, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Sep. 2025

Here's a look at the Underground Railroad buildings that still stand in the Hamilton County city and how the art is shaping up. —Domenica Bongiovanni, IndyStar, 24 Sep. 2025

Jimmy Kimmel is back on the airwaves, and his opening monologue from his Tuesday night return to ABC is already shaping up to be one of his most-watched ever. —Katie Campione, Deadline, 24 Sep. 2025

The iconic pink-and-green duo is already shaping up to be one of 2025’s most popular bestie looks. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Sep. 2025