shape

[ʃeɪp]

shape Definition

• 1. the external form or appearance characteristic of someone or something
• 2. the particular condition or state of someone or something
• 3. to give a particular form or shape to something

Using shape: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "shape" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The vase was an unusual shape.

• Example

  She's in good shape for her age.

• Example

  He shaped the dough into a heart.

• Example

  The events of his childhood shaped his personality.

shape Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for shape

• form
• figure
• configuration
• outline
• contour

Antonyms for shape

• disfigure
• distort
• misshape

Idioms Using shape

• in no shape to do something

  not physically or mentally able to do something

  Example

  After staying up all night, I was in no shape to take the exam.

• shape up or ship out

  improve your behavior or leave

  Example

  The coach told the team to shape up or ship out if they wanted to win the championship.

• get into shape

  to become physically fit

  Example

  She started running every day to get into shape for the marathon.

Phrases with shape

• take shape

  to become clearer or more definite

  Example

  The plan for the project is starting to take shape.

• in shape

  in good physical condition

  Example

  He works out every day to stay in shape.

• out of shape

  not in good physical condition

  Example

  After months of not exercising, he was out of shape and couldn't run a mile.

Origins of shape

from Old English 'sceapian', meaning 'to create'

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Summary: shape in Brief

The term 'shape' [ʃeɪp] refers to the external form or appearance of someone or something, as well as the particular condition or state of someone or something. It can also mean to give a particular form or shape to something. Examples include 'The vase was an unusual shape,' and 'He shaped the dough into a heart.' Phrases like 'take shape' and 'in shape' extend the concept, while idioms like 'shape up or ship out' and 'get into shape' use 'shape' to denote improvement or fitness.