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shape

 
 
pronunciation:
sheIp
parts of speech:
noun, verb
phrases:
take shape
features:
Word Combinations (noun, verb), Word History, Word Explorer
part of speech: noun
definition 1: the appearance of an object as defined by its outer surface or outline; form.
Anne sorted the blocks by shape, cubes on the left and cylinders on the right.
 
synonyms:
contour, figure, form
similar words:
outline
definition 2: an ordered or organized form.
Writing often helps people to give shape to their ideas.
synonyms:
order, organization
similar words:
condition, trim
definition 3: physical condition.
The professional athlete is in top shape.
synonyms:
condition, trim
similar words:
form, repair
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phrase: take shape
 
part of speech: verb
inflections: shapes, shaping, shaped
definition 1: to give a certain form or shape to; mold.
We shaped the clay into a pot.
 
synonyms:
fashion, model, mold
similar words:
cast, create, form, frame, pattern, style
definition 2: to give a direction or character to.
He is shaping his life after his grandfather's.
synonyms:
forge, model, mold
similar words:
design, develop, direct, fashion, form, order, organize, plan, tailor
definition 3: to take form in a particular way (usually followed by "up").
If our project shapes up well, we will present it to the whole school.
synonyms:
develop, form
similar words:
crystallize, emerge
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derivation: shaped (adj.)
Word History
Shape comes from an Old English word that means "to create, form, or destine."
Word Explorer
similar to shape
some broader categories that include shape
some descriptions of shapes
some elements of shape
some examples of shapes
some kinds of shapes
some parts of shapes
some people associated with shapes
some places associated with shapes
some things conventionally associated with shapes