What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shapely
Example
She has a shapely figure that turns heads. [shapely: adjective]
Example
The vase had a shapely design that caught my eye. [shapely: adjective]
Example
The dress was designed to be shapely and accentuate the wearer's curves. [shapely: adjective]
hourglass
Example
She has an hourglass figure that is the envy of many. [hourglass: noun]
Example
The guitar had an hourglass shape that made it comfortable to play. [hourglass: adjective]
Example
The dress was tailored to create an hourglass silhouette and flatter the wearer's curves. [hourglass: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shapely is a more common word than hourglass in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts. Hourglass is a more specific term that is often associated with body shape and fashion.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shapely and hourglass?
Both shapely and hourglass are relatively informal terms that are commonly used in casual conversation and popular media. However, shapely is a more neutral term that can be used in formal contexts, while hourglass may be considered too informal or even inappropriate in some settings.
