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n. 1. A hollow form or matrix for shaping a fluid or plastic substance. 2. A frame or model around or on which something is formed or shaped. 3. Something that is made in or shaped on a mold. 4. The shape or pattern of a mold. 5. General shape or form: the oval mold of her face. 6. Distinctive character or type: a leader in the mold of her predecessors. 7. A fixed or restrictive pattern or form: a method of scientific investigation that broke the mold and led to a new discovery. v. mold·ed, mold·ing, molds v.tr. 1. a. To form (something) out of a fluid or plastic material: molded a cup out of clay. b. To form into a particular shape; give shape to: molded the clay into a ball. c. To guide or determine the growth or development of; influence: a teacher who helps to mold the minds of his students. 2. To fit closely by following the contours of (the body). Used of clothing. v.intr. To assume a certain shape: shoes that gradually molded to my feet. [Middle English molde, from Old French modle, molle, from Latin modulus, diminutive of modus, measure; see med- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] molda·ble adj. molder n. |
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