shady

1 of 2

adjective

ˈshā-dē 

shadier; shadiest

1

: producing or affording shade

2

: sheltered from the sun's rays

3

a

: of questionable merit : uncertain, unreliable

b

: disreputable

shadily

ˈshā-də-lē 

adverb

shadiness

ˈshā-dē-nəs 

noun

shadiness

2 of 2

noun

shad·​i·​ness -dēnə̇s 

-din-

plural -es

: the quality or state of being shady

shadiness of a deal

shadiness of a woodland grove

Synonyms of shady

Adjective

• shaded
• shadowy
• shadowed
• sheltered
• darkened

Examples of shady in a Sentence

Adjective

Their backyard is nice and shady.

I don't trust him. He seems like a pretty shady character.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

But for now, CyberLeek is trying to monetize the GTA 6 leaks by asking for shady donations. — Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 25 Aug. 2026

Others sat in shady spots on Montrose Avenue where the parade units combined with waiting community groups to end the parade at the festival grounds. — Karie Angell Luc, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026

Caladiums bring brilliant contrasting colors on the same leaf and are great plants to use in the thriller role for a slightly shady location. — Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Aug. 2026

While this feature never got implemented, a Phia spokesperson told Bloomberg, Kianni was in support of the cookie stuffing practices, and encouraged team members to implement shady practices. — Sarah Glodek, Fortune, 21 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1579, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for shady

• cady
• lady
• zaidi
• arcady
• landlady

Kids Definition

shady

adjective

ˈshād-ē 

shadier; shadiest

1

: casting a shadow : giving shade

2

: sheltered from the sun's rays

a shady grove

3

: not right or honest

a shady business deal

shadily

ˈshād-ᵊl-ē 

adverb

shadiness

ˈshād-ē-nəs 

noun