shapely
|shape-ly|
B2
/ˈʃeɪpli/
well-proportioned
Etymology
Etymology Information
'shapely' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'schapli,' where 'schap' meant 'shape' and '-li' was an adjective-forming suffix.
Historical Evolution
'schapli' transformed into the modern English word 'shapely' through gradual phonetic changes.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'having a definite shape,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having an attractive or well-proportioned shape.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
having an attractive or well-proportioned shape.
The sculpture was admired for its shapely form.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45