📒 the form of the outer edges or surfaces of something; an example of something that has a particular form
- a rectangular/spherical/cylindrical shape
- geometric shapes
- fantastic creatures that can change shape and be either visible or invisible
📒 a person or thing that is difficult to see clearly
- Ghostly shapes moved around in the dark.
- I could just make out a dark shape in the distance.
- An enormous shape loomed up out of the mist directly in front of me.
📒 the physical condition of somebody/something
- in … shape What sort of shape was the car in after the accident?
- He's in good shape for someone who had surgery six months ago.
- The ship was in bad shape as a result of damage sustained in the collision.
📒 the particular qualities or characteristics of something
- Will new technology change the shape of broadcasting?
- Prices vary according to the size and shape of each project.
- He did much to determine the shape of Asia's political map.
📒 to become angry, anxious or upset
- Don't get bent out of shape about it. It was just a mistake!
📒 to take exercise, eat healthy food, etc. in order to become physically fit
- I’m trying to get into shape before summer.
- I need to get back into shape after the Christmas holiday.
📒 to train somebody so that they do a particular job, task, etc. well
- It took him just two weeks to knock the new recruits into shape.
📒 to make something more acceptable, organized or successful
- I've got all the information together but it still needs knocking into shape.
- It shouldn’t take long to get the company back into shape.
📒 to express or explain a particular idea, plan, etc.
- Marie tried to find the right words to give shape to the confusion in her head.
📒 of any type
- I don't approve of violence in any shape or form.
- I can't stand insects in any shape or form.
- I do not condone bullying in any way, shape or form.
📒 (to get/stay) in good physical condition
- You don't have to spend a fortune on gym membership to get in shape.
- I like to stay in shape.
📒 not having the normal shape
- The wheel had been twisted out of shape.
- The bicycle had been battered out of shape.
📒 not in good physical condition
- I didn’t realize how out of shape I was!
📒 the way things are likely to develop in the future
- Are solar-powered cars the shape of things to come?
- This new system could be the shape of things to come.
📒 to develop and become more complete or organized
- The garden is beginning to take shape.
- A new song began to take shape in her mind.
📒 to dance
- She spent the whole evening throwing shapes on the dance floor.
📒 to behave in a way that makes you seem to threaten somebody, especially by standing as though you are ready to fight, without actually becoming violent
- I was worried he might get violent but he was just throwing shapes.
- (figurative) The two main investors threw some shapes during the debate.