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Webster 1913 Edition

Noun.

One who shapes;

as, the

shaper

of one’s fortunes

The secret of those old

shapers

died with them.

Lowell.

That which shapes; a machine for giving a particular form or outline to an object.

Specifically;

(a)

(Metal Working)

A kind of planer in which the tool, instead of the work, receives a reciprocating motion, usually from a crank.

(b)

(Wood Working)

A machine with a vertically revolving cutter projecting above a flat table top, for cutting irregular outlines, moldings, etc.

shaper ‎(plural shapers)

One who shapes.

the shaper of one's fortunes

The secret of those old shapers died with them. — Lowell.
A machine tool in which a single-point cutting tool mounted on a reciprocating ram is traversed across the workpiece linearly. Shapers can generate various shapes, but were most especially employed in generating flat surfaces and keyways. The shaper is nowadays obsolescent, most of its applications being served by milling machines.
(surfing) A person who designs and builds surfboards.
He apprenticed with several notable Southern California shapers before packing his bags for Hawaii — Tom Linker