An Encylopedia Britannica Company

shape

1 shape /ˈʃeɪp/ noun
plural shapes
1 shape
/ˈʃeɪp/
noun
plural shapes
Britannica Dictionary definition of SHAPE
: the form or outline of an object
[count]
[noncount]
[noncount]
: the condition of something or someone usually used with in
: a physically strong and healthy condition
often used figuratively
[noncount] : the way something is done : the form of something
[noncount] : a definite form or arrangement of something
[count] : a person or thing that cannot be seen clearly

bent out of shape

see 1bent
2 shape /ˈʃeɪp/ verb
shapes; shaped; shaping
2 shape
/ˈʃeɪp/
verb
shapes; shaped; shaping
Britannica Dictionary definition of SHAPE
[+ object]
: to give a particular form or shape to (something) : to work with (a material) in order to make something from it
often + into
: to influence the development of (something) : to help (something) become what it is
: to make (something, such as a plan) by a process of careful thought

shape up

[phrasal verb] informal
: to happen or develop in a particular way
: to start behaving in a better or more acceptable way
◊ In informal U.S. English, if you are told to shape up or ship out, you will have to leave your job, position, etc., if you do not improve your behavior.
shape up (someone or something) or shape (someone or something) up : to cause (someone or something) to start behaving in a better or more acceptable way
: to make your body stronger and healthier by exercising

— shaper

noun, plural shapers [count]