shapewear
noun
shape·wear
ˈshāp-ˌwer 
: tight-fitting undergarments designed to shape and smooth the body
… shapewear may be just the thing to wear under a clingy evening dress.—
Sylvia Rubin
Sylvia RubinShapewear … isn't about shrinking your waist to the size of your wrist, or getting your booty back to its prepubescent years; it's about making your clothes look and fit better.—Cloe Cabrera
Cloe CabreraIn growing numbers, men are easing into a variety of shapewear, including elasticized tank tops …—Jean Patteson
Jean PattesonExamples of shapewear in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Skin-baring outfits present another summer-specific shapewear issue.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2026
Finding the best shapewear for a wedding-guest dress often comes down to the outfit itself.
—Malia Griggs, Glamour, 4 June 2026
Even the physical goods the Kardashians have brought to market—Skims, Kim’s shapewear brand, was recently valued at $5 billion, and Kylie sold more than half of her eponymous cosmetics company, in 2019, for $600 million—have been extensions of their telegenic brand.
—Megan Garber, The Atlantic, 24 May 2026
Shirilla specifically mentioned the Keeping Up With the Kardashian alum's shapewear brand.
—Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 23 May 2026
Shapermint is one of the brands leaning into that shift, with comfort-first wireless bras and shapewear that offer a flattering look and lightweight support that allows the body to breathe even in warm temperatures.
—Malana Vantyler, Miami Herald, 6 May 2026
The company began as a shapewear brand offering a wide range of sizes, from XXS to 5XL, reflecting a commitment to body positivity.
—Lisa Gutierrez
may 2, Kansas City Star, 2 May 2026
Back in 2014, Spanx translated its shapewear technology into a new category, introducing denim with fit solutions.
—Sarah Jones, Footwear News, 29 Apr. 2026
The intimate apparel brand also makes wireless bras, shapewear, swimsuits, and pajamas, all designed with the same focus on function and ease.
—Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 15 Apr. 2026
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2026
Finding the best shapewear for a wedding-guest dress often comes down to the outfit itself.
—Malia Griggs, Glamour, 4 June 2026
Even the physical goods the Kardashians have brought to market—Skims, Kim’s shapewear brand, was recently valued at $5 billion, and Kylie sold more than half of her eponymous cosmetics company, in 2019, for $600 million—have been extensions of their telegenic brand.
—Megan Garber, The Atlantic, 24 May 2026
Shirilla specifically mentioned the Keeping Up With the Kardashian alum's shapewear brand.
—Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 23 May 2026
Shapermint is one of the brands leaning into that shift, with comfort-first wireless bras and shapewear that offer a flattering look and lightweight support that allows the body to breathe even in warm temperatures.
—Malana Vantyler, Miami Herald, 6 May 2026
The company began as a shapewear brand offering a wide range of sizes, from XXS to 5XL, reflecting a commitment to body positivity.
—Lisa Gutierrez
may 2, Kansas City Star, 2 May 2026
Back in 2014, Spanx translated its shapewear technology into a new category, introducing denim with fit solutions.
—Sarah Jones, Footwear News, 29 Apr. 2026
The intimate apparel brand also makes wireless bras, shapewear, swimsuits, and pajamas, all designed with the same focus on function and ease.
—Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 15 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Shapewear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shapewear. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
