shape: meaning and definitions

English dictionary

The characteristic surface configuration of a thing; an outline or contour. See Synonyms at form.
Something distinguished from its surroundings by its outline.
The contour of a person's body; the figure.
A definite distinctive form: "The bomb gave the shape of life, outer and inner, an irreversible charge; a sense of fatefulness would now lie on all things” ( Alfred Kazin).
A desirable form: a fabric that holds its shape.
A form or condition in which something may exist or appear; embodiment: a god in the shape of a swan.
Assumed or false appearance; guise.
A ghostly form; a phantom.
Something, such as a mold or pattern, used to give or determine form.
The proper condition of something necessary for action, effectiveness, or use: an athlete in excellent shape.
To give a particular form to; create.
To cause to conform to a particular form or pattern; adapt to fit.
To plan to bring about the realization or accomplishment of; devise.
To embody in a definite form: shaped a folk legend into a full-scale opera.
To adapt to a particular use or purpose; adjust.
To direct the course of: "He shaped history as well as being shaped by it” ( Robert J. Samuelson).
To come to pass; happen.
To take on a definite shape or form. Often used with up or into.
shape up Informal To turn out; develop.
shape up To improve so as to meet a standard: Either shape up or ship out.