Shaped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔷
Add to dictionary

shaped

[ʃeɪpt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics

Having a particular shape or form.

Synonyms

formed, molded, sculpted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
shaped

This word is best used when referring to the external form or appearance of something. It is a general term that does not imply any specific method of creation.

  • The vase is beautifully shaped.
  • The mountains are shaped by centuries of erosion.
formed

Use this word when talking about something that has come into being or has been created as a whole. It often implies a natural or gradual process.

  • The committee was formed to address the issue.
  • Clouds formed in the sky before the storm.
molded

This word is particularly suitable when describing something that has been given a form by being pressed into a mold. It often implies a careful, controlled process.

  • The artist molded the clay into a beautiful sculpture.
  • Her experiences molded her into a strong individual.
sculpted

Best used when talking about creating a three-dimensional object by carving or cutting material. It has an artistic connotation.

  • The statue was expertly sculpted from marble.
  • His body was sculpted from years of intense training.

Examples of usage

  • The cookie cutter produced perfectly shaped cookies.
  • The sculptor created a beautifully shaped statue.
Context #2 | Verb

past tense

Having been given a particular shape or form.

Synonyms

formed, molded, sculpted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
shaped

Generally refers to something that has been given a specific form or outline. It can be used in a variety of contexts, including physical objects and abstract concepts.

  • The table was beautifully shaped.
  • Her experiences in college shaped her outlook on life.
molded

Refers to shaping something into a particular form, often suggesting influence or pressure. It is frequently used for materials like clay or in the context of influencing someone's character.

  • The artist molded the clay into a vase.
  • His parents molded him into a disciplined individual.
sculpted

Mostly used to describe the process of carving or shaping material like stone, wood, or ice into a specific form, often with an artistic focus. Can also be used metaphorically for well-defined body shape.

  • The statue was beautifully sculpted out of marble.
  • She has a sculpted physique from years of training.
formed

Often used to describe the creation or development of something through assembling parts or through a process. It can also refer to the beginning of something.

  • The committee was formed to address the issue.
  • Clouds formed in the sky.

Examples of usage

  • She shaped the clay into a vase.
  • He shaped his career through hard work and dedication.
Context #3 | Adjective

physical appearance

Having a well-defined or attractive form.

Synonyms

attractive, curvaceous, well-defined.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
shaped

Use this word when describing something that has a particular form or outline. It is a neutral term and can be used for both objects and people.

  • The vase is beautifully shaped
  • She has a well-shaped figure
well-defined

This phrase is used to describe something that has clear and distinct lines or features. It can be used for physical attributes or abstract concepts.

  • He has well-defined muscles
  • The plan was well-defined and easy to follow
attractive

This word is used to describe someone or something that is pleasing to look at. It has a positive connotation and implies that the appearance is appealing or charming.

  • She has an attractive smile
  • The garden is very attractive in the spring
curvaceous

This term is often used to describe a woman who has a body with pronounced curves. It is generally positive but can sometimes be considered objectifying.

  • She was known for her curvaceous figure
  • The sculpture had a curvaceous form that caught everyone's eye

Examples of usage

  • She had a beautifully shaped figure.
  • The dress emphasized her nicely shaped legs.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art

  • Artists like sculptors and potters use various tools to shape materials like clay and stone into beautiful forms.
  • In modern art, 'shape' can refer to the use of geometric figures to create abstract compositions.

Science

  • In biology, the shape of an organism can affect its survival, as certain shapes can help with movement or camouflage.
  • In physics, the shape of an object can impact how it reacts to forces, such as aerodynamics affecting how planes fly.

Psychology

  • Our perceptions of objects can be heavily influenced by their shapes, affecting how we interpret their purpose or significance.
  • Studies have shown that certain shapes can elicit emotional responses, like rounded shapes often being perceived as friendly.

Architecture

  • Architects often play with different shapes to create unique buildings that stand out in a cityscape.
  • The shape of a structure can also affect how people interact with the space, such as in open plan designs.

Origin of 'shaped'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'shaped' comes from the Old English 'sceapian', which means to create or form.
  • In Middle English, the term evolved to 'shapen', indicating the action of making something in a specific form.

The word 'shaped' originated from the Old English word 'scapian' which means to create or form. Over time, the word evolved to 'shaped' in Middle English, retaining its meaning of having a particular form or structure. The concept of shaping has been essential in various fields such as art, mathematics, and design, where the manipulation of form and structure is crucial for creating objects of beauty and functionality.


See also: mishapen, misshape, misshaping, reshape, reshaping, shape, shapeless, shapely, shaper, shapes, shaping, unshaped.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,503, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.