noun

1. that quality of a thing which depends on the relative position of all points composing its outline or external surface; physical or spatial form
2. the form characteristic of a particular person or thing, or class of things
3. the contour of the body, exclusive of the face; figure
4. assumed or feigned appearance; guise a foe in the shape of a friend
5. an imaginary or spectral form; phantom
6. something having a particular shape, used as a mold or basis for shaping or fashioning
7. any of the forms, structures, etc. in which a thing may exist dangers of every shape
8. definite, regular, or suitable form; orderly arrangement to begin to take shape
9. ☆
   1. condition; state, esp. of health a patient in poor shape
   2. good physical condition exercises that keep one in shape

Etymology: ME schap < OE (ge)sceap, form, created thing, akin to scieppan, to create, form < IE *skeb-, var. of base *(s)kep-, to cut with a sharp tool > shaft, shave

transitive verb shaped, shaping shap′·ing

1. to give definite shape to; make, as by cutting or molding material
2. to arrange, fashion, express, or devise (a plan, answer, etc.) in definite form
3. to adapt or adjust to shape one's plans to one's abilities
4. to direct or conduct (one's life, the course of events, etc.)
5. Obsolete to appoint or decree

intransitive verb

1. Obsolete to become suited; conform
2. Rare to happen
3. Informal to take shape or form: often with into or up