adj
shapely
SHAYP-lee
Shapely (adj) means having an attractive, well-proportioned shape or figure. Example: “The vase had a shapely curve that caught everyone's eye.”
adj
1
Having an attractive, well-proportioned shape or figure.
"The vase had a shapely curve that caught everyone's eye."
How to use shapely
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPleasingly formed or curved, often describing a person's figure or an object's design.
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Word forms
- Comparative
- shapelier, more shapely
- Superlative
- shapeliest, most shapely
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The vase had a _____ curve that caught everyone's eye.
Etymology
From Middle English schaply, "well-formed," built from shape plus -ly.
Related words
Rhymes for shapely
See all rhymes for shapely →Frequently asked questions
What does “shapely” mean?
The word “shapely” means having an attractive, well-proportioned shape or figure. In plain terms, pleasingly formed or curved, often describing a person's figure or an object's design.
How do you pronounce “shapely”?
“Shapely” is pronounced SHAYP-lee (/ˈʃeɪpli/ in IPA).
How do you use “shapely” in a sentence?
Here is “shapely” used in a sentence: “The vase had a shapely curve that caught everyone's eye.”
What is the opposite of “shapely”?
The opposite of “shapely” — its antonyms — are amorphous and misshapen.
What part of speech is “shapely”?
“Shapely” is an adjective.
Where does the word “shapely” come from?
The word “shapely” comes from Middle English. From Middle English schaply, "well-formed," built from shape plus -ly.
