take shape
idiomatic 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
Paul GrayThe 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
M. Mitchell Waldrop… the first half of the century, before the modern medical system took shape.—Geoffrey Cowley
Geoffrey CowleyExamples of take shape in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In the midst of feeling helpless, Kate said an idea took shape to commemorate the victims.
—Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Sep. 2025
These executives will have prominent roles as the new organization takes shape.
—Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025
By the mid-1800s, Space Coast towns that still stand today were starting to take shape.
—Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 5 Sep. 2025
The dueling, hourslong hearings on Thursday offered a preview of the upcoming floor debates, which will take shape in the House and Senate over the next week.
—Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 4 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for take shape
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Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Sep. 2025
These executives will have prominent roles as the new organization takes shape.
—Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025
By the mid-1800s, Space Coast towns that still stand today were starting to take shape.
—Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 5 Sep. 2025
The dueling, hourslong hearings on Thursday offered a preview of the upcoming floor debates, which will take shape in the House and Senate over the next week.
—Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 4 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for take shape
Cite this Entry
“Take shape.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20shape. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.
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