Definition of shapeless

The noun "shapeless" has its roots in Old English and Middle English. The word "shape" itself dates back to the 11th century, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*skapiiz", meaning "to form" or "to fashion". The adverbial form "shapeless" emerged in the 14th century, meaning "lacking a definite shape" or "formless". In Middle English, around the 13th to 15th centuries, the word "shapeless" was used to describe both physical objects and abstract concepts. For example, a shapeless block of stone or a shapeless idea. Over time, the meaning of "shapeless" has expanded to include a sense of being unattractive, ungainly, or unformed, particularly in reference to people's physical appearance. Today, the word "shapeless" is widely used in various contexts, from art and design to everyday language.