take shape

phrase

: to assume a definite or distinctive form : to develop and become apparent or established
The plan is finally taking shape.
Edison's tireless work habits took shape during his childhood …—Paul Gray
The proto-planetary fragments crashed together, coalesced by gravity, and crashed again into other fragments, until they gradually took shape as the planets we know today.—M. Mitchell Waldrop
… the first half of the century, before the modern medical system took shape.—Geoffrey Cowley

Examples of take shape in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And yet, the details behind the case have started to take shape, even if no suspect has been identified and no motive has been disclosed. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 30 June 2026 With the majority of his players stepping onto a college campus for the first time, Turgeon knows the identity of this year’s team is still taking shape. — Christian Marshall, Kansas City Star, 29 June 2026 The roster might be facing upheaval, but the Columbus Blue Jackets coaching staff has taken shape under head coach Rick Bowness. — Aaron Portzline, New York Times, 1 July 2026 Having said that, when these two planets work together harmoniously, our affection, passions and desires are supported by effort and structure, allowing for things to take shape in a sustainable way. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for take shape

Word History

First Known Use

1560, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of take shape was in 1560

Rhymes for take shape

See All Rhymes for take shape

Browse Nearby Words

take root
take shape
take ship
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Take shape.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20shape. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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