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)
• join
• jell
• combine
• fuse
• coalesce
• cohere
• couple
• 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

The exact way that Chelsea’s defence shapes up around Lacroix will be intriguing. — Mark Carey, New York Times, 25 July 2026

The culinary star will watch from a secret command center as Milian works with the staff to uncover the restaurants’ underlying problems, later storming in to help the teams shape up. — Erin Clements, PEOPLE, 24 July 2026

The stacked bob is shaping up to be one of summer’s biggest hair trends, thanks to its chic, shorter length and volume-boosting shape. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 23 July 2026

Based on the latest economic indicators and South Florida’s calendar of major events, 2027 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the area’s visitor economy. — Michael Cheng, The Conversation, 23 July 2026