shape
noun
the quality of a distinct object or body in having an external surface or outline of specific form or figure.
have shaped
-
present perfectof shape.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“Humans have used images to tell stories, and the stories have shaped the world,” said Linkof.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 9, 2026
“These appointments are consistent with the deliberate, multiyear transitions that have shaped previous leadership changes across the platform. It also reinforces CVC’s ongoing strategic focus on performance,” the company said.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 9, 2026
By the People is Slate’s end-of-term project exploring the ways in which ordinary Americans have shaped the meaning of the Constitution beyond the rulings of the Supreme Court.
From Slate ● Aug. 8, 2026
In turn, X appears to have shaped Musk.
From BBC ● Jul. 27, 2026
I believe that there are four institutions in American history that have shaped our approach to race and justice but remain poorly understood.
From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson
