What does shapely mean?
Shapely is an adjective describing something whose shape is attractive, harmonious, or pleasingly proportioned. It is most often applied to a person’s figure, where it conveys admiration for balanced, graceful lines rather than merely the presence of an outline. The word can also describe objects, designs, and forms whose appearance is refined or well-proportioned. “A shapely figure,” for example, is a conventional and flattering expression, while “shapely curves” suggests an elegant outline. Its tone is generally literary and complimentary, giving it a more expressive quality than neutral words such as “shaped.” Although it can refer to something literally having a form, the word’s modern use especially favors the sense of beauty or grace in appearance. In a description such as “the dancer’s shapely silhouette,” it evokes poise, balance, and visual appeal. Shapely is therefore useful when an author wants to suggest that a person or thing is attractive because of the harmony of its proportions.
adjectiveAttractive or pleasing in shape; well-proportioned. The word is especially used to describe a person’s figure, but it can also refer to objects or forms with an elegant outline.
- Attractive or pleasing in shape; well-proportioned.
- Having a distinct or pleasing form; shaped.
"The dancer’s shapely silhouette was striking against the stage lights."
"She wore a simple dress that emphasized her shapely figure."
"The vase has a shapely, gently curved profile."
“Shapely” turns a simple outline into a compliment: it suggests not merely a shape, but a pleasing harmony of proportions.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shapely come from?
Shapely developed in the 19th century from the noun shape, meaning an external form or appearance, combined with the adjective-forming suffix -ly. The word belongs to the same English word family as shape, shaped, shaping, shapeless, and reshape. Its meaning originally grew naturally from the idea of having a definite or pleasing form.
Related word forms
How shapely is actually used
Shapely is generally literary and complimentary. It is commonly used for people and figures, especially in descriptions of the body, and can also describe objects with an elegant or pleasing outline.
Easily confused with shapely
Shapely is the usual word for an attractive, well-proportioned form, whereas shapeful is a less common literary term meaning full of shape or form.