Dictionary entries for 'shape'

Synonyms

shape (shāp)

[Middle English, from Old English gesceap, a creation.]

noun

1. The characteristic surface configuration of a thing; an outline or contour. See synonyms at form
2. Something distinguished from its surroundings by its outline.
The contour of a person's body; the figure.
1. A definite distinctive form: “The bomb gave the shape of life, outer and inner, an irreversible charge; a sense of fatefulness would now lie on all things” (Alfred Kazin)
2. A desirable form: a fabric that holds its shape.
A form or condition in which something may exist or appear; embodiment: a god in the shape of a swan.
Assumed or false appearance; guise.
A ghostly form; a phantom.
Something, such as a mold or pattern, used to give or determine form.
The proper condition of something necessary for action, effectiveness, or use: an athlete in excellent shape.

To give a particular form to; create.
To cause to conform to a particular form or pattern; adapt to fit.
1. To plan to bring about the realization or accomplishment of; devise.
2. To embody in a definite form: shaped a folk legend into a full-scale opera.
1. To adapt to a particular use or purpose; adjust.
2. To direct the course of: “He shaped history as well as being shaped by it” (Robert J. Samuelson)

shape up: Informal To turn out; develop.; To improve so as to meet a standard: Either shape up or ship out.

SHAPE (shāp)