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shape

 
 
pronunciation:
sheIp
parts of speech:
noun, transitive verb, intransitive verb
phrases:
shape up, take shape
features:
Word Combinations (noun, verb), Word History, Word Explorer
part of speech: noun
definition 1: the outward appearance of something as characterized by its outline; form.
The child sorted the blocks by shape and by color.The table has an oval shape.
 
synonyms:
contour, figure, form
similar words:
layout, mold, outline
definition 2: organized arrangement; order.
The project failed because it had no real shape.Writing often helps people to give shape to their ideas.It took many months to get the old hotel in shape for the first guests.
synonyms:
order, organization, structure
similar words:
condition, pattern, trim
definition 3: physical condition.
An athlete needs to be in top shape for the competition.The building was in terrible shape and had to be torn down.
synonyms:
condition, trim
similar words:
form, repair
definition 4: the form of one's body; figure.
Our clothing is designed to fit all shapes.
synonyms:
figure, form
definition 5: assumed form or appearance; guise.
These swindlers often take the shape of investment advisers.
synonyms:
form, guise, seeming
definition 6: the combination of circumstances that defines a particular way of living, culture, or period.
This was the unique shape of society at the turn of the century.
Word CombinationsSubscriber feature About this feature
phrase: take shape
 
part of speech: transitive 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:
beat, cast, craft, create, form, frame, pattern, style
definition 2: to express verbally in a considered manner.
She shaped her argument carefully.
synonyms:
express, speak, verbalize
similar words:
craft, design, fashion, frame, present
definition 3: to give a direction or character to.
He is shaping his life after that of his grandfather.
synonyms:
forge, model, mold
similar words:
carve, design, develop, direct, fashion, form, order, organize, plan, tailor
 
part of speech: intransitive verb
definition: to take form in a particular way (usu. fol. by "up").
If our work shapes up well, we will invest more money and expand the project.
synonyms:
develop, form
similar words:
crystallize, emerge, materialize
Word CombinationsSubscriber feature About this feature
phrase: shape up
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