Definition of: shape

(shāp) noun
1. Outward form or construction; configuration; contour.
2. A developed expression or definite formulation; realization or application; embodiment; cast: to put an idea into shape.
3. A being, image, or appearance considered with reference to its form, generally incorporeal; ghost; phantom.
4. The character or form in which a thing appears; guise; aspect.
5. Something that gives or determines form; a pattern or mold; in millinery, a stiff frame.
6. The lines of a person's body; figure.
7. Manner of execution.
8. Condition as regarding fitness.
9. A blancmange, jelly, etc., cooled and shaped in a mold.
—to take shape To have or assume a definite form.
—v. shaped, shaped (Rare shap·en), shap·ing v.t.
1. To give shape to; mold; form.
2. To adjust or adapt; modify.
3. To devise; prepare.
4. To give direction or character to: to shape one's course of action.
5. To put into or express in words.
6. Obs. To appoint; ordain.
—v.i.
7. To take shape; develop; form: often with up or into.
8. Rare To become adapted; conform.
9. Rare To happen; come about. See synonyms under MAKE. [OE gesceap creation]
—shap′er noun