shape

[[t]ʃeɪp[/t]]

n. v. shaped, shap•ing

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

2) something seen in outline, as in silhouette:

A vague shape appeared through the mist[/ex]

3) an imaginary form; phantom

4) an assumed appearance; guise

5) organized form or orderly arrangement:

He could give no shape to his ideas[/ex]

6) condition or state of repair:

The old house was in bad shape[/ex]

7) the collective conditions forming a way of life or mode of existence:

What will the shape of the future be?[/ex]

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

9) something used to give form, as a mold or a pattern

10) mel bui bui a flanged metal beam or bar of uniform section, as a channel or I-beam

11) to give definite form, organization, or character to

12) to couch or express in words

13) to adjust; adapt

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

15) anb psl to teach (a behavior) by rewarding actions as they approximate the desired result

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

17) phv shape up

a) to evolve or develop, esp. favorably

b) to improve one's behavior, performance, or physical condition

•

- take shape

Etymology: bef. 900; (n.) ME; OE gesceapu (pl.), c. ON skap state, mood; (v.) ME, generalized from OE sceapen, ptp. of sceppan, scyppan, c. OHG scaphen, ON skepja, Go gaskapjan to create, make