FORM, subst. The external appearance of any object, when considered only with reference to shape or figure. This term, therefore, in the literal sense, can only be applied to the objects of sight and touch, and is therefore nearly synonymous with figure; but these terms 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. See FIGURE.