shapely
UK: ˈʃeɪpli | US: ˈʃeɪpli
adj. having an attractive or well-proportioned shape
adj. pleasing in form or appearance
The word "shapely" combines "shape," derived from Old English "sceap" (meaning "form" or "creation"), with the suffix "-ly," which turns nouns into adjectives (e.g., "friendly," "lovely"). Originally, "shape" referred to physical form, and by the 14th century, "-ly" was added to denote "having the qualities of." Over time, "shapely" evolved to specifically describe an aesthetically pleasing or harmonious form, often applied to the human body or artistic designs.
The dancer’s shapely figure captivated the audience.
She admired the vase’s shapely curves.
His shapely prose made the essay a pleasure to read.
The sculptor carved a shapely statue from marble.
The dress highlighted her shapely silhouette.