shadow
1shad·ow
noun \ˈsha-(ˌ)dō\Definition of SHADOW
1
: partial darkness or obscurity within a part of space from which rays from a source of light are cut off by an interposed opaque body
2
: a reflected image
3
: shelter from danger or observation
4
a : an imperfect and faint representation b : an imitation of something : copy
5
: the dark figure cast upon a surface by a body intercepting the rays from a source of light
6
: phantom
7
plural : dark 1a
8
: a shaded or darker portion of a picture
9
: an attenuated form or a vestigial remnant
10
a : an inseparable companion or follower b : one (as a spy or detective) that shadows
11
: a small degree or portion : trace
12
: a source of gloom or unhappiness
13
a : an area near an object : vicinity b : pervasive and dominant influence
14
: a state of ignominy or obscurity
— shad·ow·less \ˈsha-dō-ləs, -də-ləs\ adjective
— shad·ow·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective
Examples of SHADOW
- The tree cast a long shadow across the lawn.
- You can see your own shadow on a sunny day.
- Part of the valley was in shadow.
- He saw something moving in the shadows.
- I sensed a shadow of disappointment in his expression.
Origin of SHADOW
Middle English shadwe, from Old English sceaduw-, sceadu shade
First Known Use: before 12th century
2shadow
verbDefinition of SHADOW
transitive verb2
: to cast a shadow upon : cloud
3
obsolete : to shelter from the sun
4
obsolete : conceal
5
: to represent or indicate obscurely or faintly —often used with forth or out
6
a : to follow especially secretly : trail b : to accompany and observe especially in a professional setting
7
archaic : shade 5
intransitive verb
1
: to pass gradually or by degrees
Examples of SHADOW
- Police shadowed the suspect for several days.
- She spent the night shadowing other waiters at the restaurant.
First Known Use of SHADOW
before 12th century
3shadow
adjectiveDefinition of SHADOW
1
: of, relating to, or resembling a shadow cabinet <shadow minister of defense>
2
a : having an indistinct pattern <shadow plaid> b : having darker sections of design <shadow lace>
First Known Use of SHADOW
1906
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