shapeless

[ sheyp-lis ]

adjective

1. having no definite or regular shape or form:

   a shapeless mass of clay.

2. lacking beauty or elegance of form.

shapeless

/ ˈʃeɪplɪs /

adjective

1. having no definite shape or form

   a shapeless mass

   a shapeless argument

2. lacking a symmetrical or aesthetically pleasing shape

   a shapeless figure

Derived Forms

• ˈshapelessness, noun
• ˈshapelessly, adverb

Other Words From

• shapeless·ly adverb
• shapeless·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of shapeless¹

1250–1300; shape + -less; replacing Middle English scaples

Example Sentences

But make no mistake: this was a serious mis-step, and he accepted full responsibility for the shapeless fiasco that unfolded at Wembley.

From BBC

They cited her “frumpy cardigan, shapeless above-the-knee shift” and, get this, “‘demure’ makeup.”

From Salon

Mr. Cranston, a large, shapeless man anyway, in a bowler hat and his windowpane plaid greatcoat under his life preserver.

From Literature

The main process affected was morphogenesis -- an organism developing its shape -- and shapeless embryos cannot survive.

From Science Daily

Instead of what passes away, he’s thinking about what can be rescued from some nameless, shapeless future obliteration.

From New York Times