the quality of a distinct object or body in having an external surface or outline of specific form or figure.

this quality as found in some individual object or body form

This lake has a peculiar shape.

something seen in outline, as in silhouette

A vague shape appeared through the mist.

an imaginary form; phantom.

an assumed appearance; guise

an angel in the shape of a woman.

a particular or definite organized form or expression

He could give no shape to his ideas.

proper form; orderly arrangement.

condition or state of repair

The old house was in bad shape. He was sick last year, but is in good shape now.

the collective conditions forming a way of life or mode of existence

What will the shape of the future be?

the figure, physique, or body of a person, esp. of a woman

A dancer can keep her shape longer than those of us who have sedentary jobs.

something used to give form, as a mold or a pattern.

Also called section. Building Trades, Metalworking . a flanged metal beam or bar of uniform section, as a channel iron, I-beam, etc.

Nautical . a ball, cone, drum, etc., used as a day signal, singly or in combinations, to designate a vessel at anchor or engaged in some particular operation.

to give definite form, shape, organization, or character to; fashion or form.

to couch or express in words

to shape a statement.

to adjust; adapt

He shaped everything to suit his taste.

to direct (one's course, future, etc.).

to file the teeth of (a saw) to uniform width after jointing.

Animal Behavior, Psychology . to teach (a desired behavior) to a human or other animal by successively rewarding the actions that more and more closely approximate that behavior.

Obsolete . to appoint; decree.

to come to a desired conclusion or take place in a specified way

If discussions shape properly, the companies will merge.

shape up,

to assume a specific form

The plan is beginning to shape up.

to evolve or develop, esp. favorably.

to improve one's behavior or performance to meet a required standard.

to get oneself into good physical condition.

(of longshoremen) to get into a line or formation in order to be assigned the day's work. ?

take shape

to assume a fixed form; become definite

The house is beginning to take shape.