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Shapes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shapes

[ʃeɪps ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

geometry

A shape is the form of an object or its external boundary, outline, or external surface. Shapes can be two-dimensional (such as square, circle, triangle) or three-dimensional (such as cube, sphere, pyramid).

Synonyms

figure, form, pattern, structure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shapes

Used to describe physical outlines or contours of objects, can be used in both artistic and scientific contexts.

  • The artist drew various shapes on the canvas
  • The molecules have different shapes depending on their composition
form

Used to describe the general structure or arrangement of something, often in artistic or abstract contexts.

  • The sculpture had an elegant form
  • The team devised a new form of communication
figure

Often used to talk about geometric shapes or to refer to a person's body outline.

  • The math problem involves calculating the area of geometric figures
  • She has a slender figure
structure

Used to describe the arrangement or organization of parts in a complex object, often in architectural, biological, or organizational contexts.

  • The steel structure of the building was very strong
  • The cell structure is vital for its function
pattern

Refers to repeated designs or arrangements, often used in design, fashion, and statistical contexts.

  • The wallpaper has a floral pattern
  • The data showed a clear pattern of behavior

Examples of usage

  • The children were asked to identify different shapes in the picture.
  • The artist used various shapes in his abstract painting.
Context #2 | Verb

general

To shape something means to mold, form, or create it into a particular shape or form. It can also refer to influencing or guiding the development or outcome of something.

Synonyms

determine, form, influence, mold.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shapes

Referring to the physical outline or appearance of an object.

  • The artist sketches different shapes to create the final design.
  • Get a set of cookie cutters in various shapes.
mold

To shape or form something into a particular shape, often natural materials. Can also mean to impact someone's behavior or attitude in a specific way. Often carries a more hands-on, crafting connotation.

  • The clay was easy to mold into a vase.
  • Her early experiences helped mold her strong sense of independence.
form

To bring something into existence or give it structure, or the actual state or shape of something.

  • We need to form a committee to address the issue.
  • The sculpture began to take form as the artist worked.
influence

To have an effect on the behavior, development, or character of someone or something.

  • His teachings greatly influence my thinking.
  • The marketing campaign is designed to influence consumer behavior.
determine

To find out or establish something with certainty, often through investigation or calculation.

  • We need to determine the cause of the engine failure.
  • Scientists are trying to determine the effects of climate change.

Examples of usage

  • She shaped the clay into a beautiful vase.
  • His experiences shaped his views on life.

Translations

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

Origin of 'shapes'

The word 'shape' originated from the Old English word 'sceap' which meant form or created thing. Over time, it evolved to refer to the form of an object or entity. The concept of shapes has been fundamental in geometry and art, with different cultures and civilizations exploring and creating various shapes for different purposes.

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

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,568, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.