■ noun
1》 the external form, outline, or contours of someone or something.
↘a specific form or guise assumed by someone or something: a fiend in human ~.
2》 a geometric figure such as a rectangle.
↘a piece of material, paper, etc., made or cut in a particular form.
3》 the correct or original form of something.
↘definite or orderly arrangement.
4》 the condition or state of someone or something.
↘good physical condition.
↘the distinctive nature or qualities of something.
■ verb
1》 give a particular ~ to.
↘make (something) fit the form of something else.
2》 determine the nature of.
3》 (often ~ up ) develop in a particular way.
4》 ( ~ up ) become physically fit.
↘ informal bring one's behaviour or performance to the required standard.
5》 form or produce (a sound or words).
Phrases
in the ~ of by way of.
lick (or knock or whip ) someone/thing into ~ act forcefully to bring someone or something into a better state.
take ~ develop into something definite.
Derivatives
shapable (also ~able ) adjective
~d adjective
~r noun
Origin
OE gesceap 'external form', also 'creation', sceppan 'create', of Gmc origin.