n.
- the external form, outline, or contours of someone or something.
▸a specific form or guise assumed by someone or something:
a fiend in human shape.
- a geometric figure such as a rectangle.
▸a piece of material, paper, etc., made or cut in a particular form.
- the correct or original form of something.
▸definite or orderly arrangement.
- the condition or state of someone or something.
▸good physical condition.
▸the distinctive nature or qualities of something.
v.
- give a particular shape to.
▸make (something) fit the form of something else.
- determine the nature of.
-
(often shape up)
develop in a particular way.
-
(shape up)
become physically fit.
▸informal improve one's behaviour or performance.
- form or produce (a sound or words).
Phrase
- in the shape of
by way of. - lick
(or knock or whip)
someone/thing into shape
act forcefully to bring someone or something into a better state. - take shape
develop into something definite.
Derivative
- shapable
(also shapeable)
adj.
- shaped adj.
- shaper n.
Etymology
OE gesceap ‘external form’, also ‘creation’, sceppan ‘create’, of Gmc origin.