shaping
UK: ˈʃeɪpɪŋ | US: ˈʃeɪpɪŋ
n. the act or process of giving form or structure to something
vt. present participle of "shape": influencing or determining the nature of something
The word "shape" originates from Old English "scieppan" (to create, form), which evolved into Middle English "shapen." The suffix "-ing" is a productive English suffix used to form nouns (indicating action or result) or present participles. Together, "shaping" literally means "the act of forming" or "in the process of forming," reflecting its dual role as a noun and verb form.
The artist is shaping the clay into a vase.
Education plays a key role in shaping young minds.
The wind and water slowly shaped the canyon over millennia.
Her leadership is shaping the future of the company.
The shaping of public opinion often relies on media influence.