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

For Texas audiences, a Houston native popping up in what’s shaping up to be the most maximalist studio film of the decade feels like a flex by proxy, especially when the reveal came during a football broadcast. —Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 27 Jan. 2026

With more specials, a new season, and a movie coming, 2026 is shaping up to be a big year for PAW Patrol fans. —Sarah Scott, Parents, 27 Jan. 2026

This winter, Bloedorn and Great Lakes experts say lake conditions are shaping up well for ice fishing, a welcome shift for coastal communities that have endured recent winters with little ice. —Chicago Tribune, 26 Jan. 2026

Analysts will want to know more in detail how wholesale orders shape up going forward, and how direct-to-consumer sales fared over the holiday season. —Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 26 Jan. 2026