shapely

[ sheyp-lee ]

adjective

, shape·li·er, shape·li·est.

1. having a pleasing shape, especially with reference to a woman's figure.

shapely

/ ˈʃeɪplɪ /

adjective

1. (esp of a woman's body or legs) pleasing or attractive in shape

Derived Forms

• ˈshapeliness, noun

Other Words From

• shapeli·ness noun
• un·shapeli·ness noun
• un·shapely adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of shapely¹

1325–75; shape + -ly; replacing Middle English shaply, schaply; compare Old English gesceaplīce (adv.) fitly

Example Sentences

He managed to tear a flat strip of wood from a nearby log and with his pearl-handled penknife whittled a shapely handle.

From Literature

But as the dance progressed, a certain softness prevailed, reinforced by the choreography’s buttery pliés, shapely arms and softly bent knees in leg extensions.

From New York Times

In the place of cabinets, it featured exposed wooden shelves stocked with shapely glass jars of potions and preserves.

From New York Times

Eve’s long, spiraling strands of hair blow out into a radiant aureole behind her shapely body, as if it were a starburst halo framing a divinity.

From Los Angeles Times

He says he took the above photo when "like so many others that day and on countless days before us, we rested awhile at Sycamore Gap admiring the tree's shapely tenacity and vigour".

From BBC

Related Words

• comely
• curvaceous
• elegant
• graceful
• pleasing
• rounded