shading

noun

shad·​ing ˈshā-diŋ How to pronounce shading (audio)
Synonyms of shadingnext
1
: the use of marking made within outlines to suggest three-dimensionality, shadow, or degrees of light and dark in a picture or drawing
2
: an interpretative effect in music gained especially by subtle changes in dynamics

Examples of shading in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That said, the red shading on the shoulder and rib area just doesn’t do it for me, especially when the font and numbers are already red. Johnny Flores Jr, New York Times, 6 Mar. 2026 The newly-sighted get better at perceiving differences in color, shape, and size — even if they were treated for their congenital cataracts after years of blindness—but not so much at spotting differences in shading or contours. Sachin Rawat, Big Think, 2 Mar. 2026 The researchers stressed the importance of transitioning away from traditional refrigerants, decarbonizing power grids, and prioritizing other adaptive measures, like better insulation and shading. Simmone Shah, Time, 25 Feb. 2026 Other hints that the image is not real are a bit more technical, such as inconsistencies in lighting, shading, and shadows. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shading

Word History

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shading was in 1663

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Cite this Entry

“Shading.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shading. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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