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
Relevance
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
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Recent Examples of shape (up)
Andrew J. Hawkins, The Verge, 21 Mar. 2026
Here’s a look at where to spot bluebonnets across Central Texas and how their growth patterns are shaping up.
—Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 20 Mar. 2026
With two months to go until the primary election, Democratic candidates are trying to stand out in what's shaping up to be a crowded field.
—Wakisha Bailey, CBS News, 19 Mar. 2026
With a new album on the way and a major festival appearance on the horizon, the coming months are shaping up to be a defining period for the artist.
—Okla Jones, Essence, 18 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for shape (up)
Verb
This year is shaping up to be a big one for self-driving trucks.
—Andrew J. Hawkins, The Verge, 21 Mar. 2026
Here’s a look at where to spot bluebonnets across Central Texas and how their growth patterns are shaping up.
—Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 20 Mar. 2026
With two months to go until the primary election, Democratic candidates are trying to stand out in what's shaping up to be a crowded field.
—Wakisha Bailey, CBS News, 19 Mar. 2026
With a new album on the way and a major festival appearance on the horizon, the coming months are shaping up to be a defining period for the artist.
—Okla Jones, Essence, 18 Mar. 2026
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 28 Mar. 2026.
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