FORM. subst. The external appearance of any object, when considered only with respect to shape or figure. This term therefore, in the literal sense, can only be applied to the objects of the sight and touch; and is nearly synonymous with figure: but they differ in some respects. Form may be employed to denote more rude and unfinished shapes; figure, those which are more perfect and regular. Form can never be employed without denoting matter; whereas figure may be employed in the abstract; thus, we say a square or a triangular figure; but not a square or triangular form. And in the same manner we say, the figure of a house; but we must denote the substance which forms that figure, if we use the word form; as, a cloud of the form of a house, &c. See FIGURE.
than the external figure, it is improper; and ought to be, water in a fluid or a solid state. Dictionary.