Mould: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in British English to describe a container used to shape a material, often in baking or pottery. Can also refer to a fungal growth on food or surfaces.

• She used a jelly mould to create a perfect dessert.
• There was mould growing on the bread, so we had to throw it away.

The American English spelling of 'mould,' also used for shaping materials and describing fungal growth. This word can also mean to strongly influence someone’s character or personality.

• He poured the liquid wax into the mold to make candles.
• The leftovers in the fridge had mold on them.
• Her experiences early in life helped to mold her into a strong leader.

Often related to creating an object by pouring liquid material into a mould. Can also mean to assign roles in a play or film. Additionally, can refer to a medical cast for broken bones.

• The artist created a bronze statue by making a cast first.
• The director cast him as the lead in the movie.
• She had to wear a cast for six weeks after breaking her arm.

Used broadly to describe shaping something into a specific visual or physical appearance. Can also refer to filling out a document or establishing a group.

• She helped the children form clay into small animals.
• You need to fill out this form to apply for the job.
• They decided to form a new committee to address the issue.

Often used in a craft or manufacturing setting to describe a hollow container used to give shape to molten or hot liquid material when it cools and hardens.

• They poured the molten metal into the mould to create the sculpture.
• She used a silicone mould to make chocolate candies.

General term for the external form, outline, or contours of an object. Used in a variety of contexts including geometry, physical appearance, and fitness.

• The cookie cutter created a star shape.
• She tried to get back into shape by working out regularly.

Typically refers to a repeated decorative design or a model or guide used to make things. It is also used in contexts of habits or behaviors.

• The wallpaper had a beautiful floral pattern.
• They noticed a pattern in his behavior over time.

Used to describe the visible shape or configuration of something. It can also refer to a type or variety of something.

• The artist worked on the form of his new clay sculpture.
• She filled out a form at the doctor's office.

Commonly used when referring to the creation of something by shaping a liquid material using a hollow container. Also used metaphorically to describe influencing someone's character or behavior.

• The artist poured the clay into the mould to create the statue.
• Teachers have a significant role in moulding the minds of young children.

A general term used to describe giving a particular form or arrangement to something. It can be physical shaping or metaphorically influencing the course of events or development.

• They will shape the metal into a thin sheet.
• Early experiences can shape a person's future.

Tends to be used in a broader sense, meaning the act of shaping or developing something. Can refer to both physical and abstract concepts.

• The potter will form the clay into a beautiful vase.
• Recent experiences have helped form his new perspective on life.

Specifically refers to the art of carving or shaping materials like clay, stone, or wood into a desired form, typically used in artistic contexts.

• She loves to sculpt figures from marble.
• He is working on sculpting a new bust for the gallery.