shading

noun

shad·​ing ˈshā-diŋ 

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

Updates include removing existing paths and replacing them with permeable pathways while introducing sun shading and a rain cover via a new pergola. —Tim Newcomb, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025

Rather than overhauling the style, Peng studied every detail of the aesthetic, including its soft shading, warm palettes, and simplicity. —Nia Bowers, USA Today, 16 May 2025

Good for a cool, shady location, the blooms are pale blue with purple shading nodding bells, 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter, and grows up to 15 feet tall. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 3 May 2025

Its disturbing ambiguities take on whole new shadings after an unexpected reveal in the end credits. —David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 10 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for shading

• aiding
• blading
• braiding
• fading
• grading
• lading
• raiding
• trading
• wading
• abrading
• blockading
• cascading