shady

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

Synonyms of shady

• shaded
• shadowy
• shadowed
• sheltered
• darkened

Examples of shady in a Sentence

Their backyard is nice and shady.

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

Recent Examples on the Web

Japanese Primrose Late in the spring season, Japanese primrose (Primula japonica) brings vibrant color to partly shady, damp areas of your garden. —Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Feb. 2026

From the trailhead, follow blue blazes on a short walk through a shady forest before crossing an open field underneath power lines then back into the trees again. —Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 Feb. 2026

Areas of concern will include bridges, overpasses, shady areas and valleys. —Chris Hoffman, CBS News, 6 Feb. 2026

Just how far is Whitney willing to go to hide his shady business dealings in Accra in his quest to grow Tender? —Chris Murphy, Vanity Fair, 6 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

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