the external form or appearance characteristic of someone or something, the particular condition or state of someone or something, to give a particular form or shape to something

in no shape to do something, shape up or ship out, get into shape

take shape, in shape, out of shape

Formal and Informal Expressions of shape

In different contexts, you can replace 'shape' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'form, configuration' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'look, condition' is a commonplace synonym.

shape: Explore its Definition & Usage

shape Definition

1the external form or appearance characteristic of someone or something
2the particular condition or state of someone or something
3to 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

Antonyms for shape

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.