shadier; shadiest
Synonyms of shadynext
1
: producing or affording shade
2
: sheltered from the sun's rays
3
a
: of questionable merit : uncertain, unreliable
shadily adverb
shadiness noun

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
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.
Avoid planting lavender in shady areas, those prone to moisture, and acidic soils. Cori Sears, The Spruce, 27 Apr. 2026 Onscreen, Maddy is seated with a direct line of sight to Cassie and Nate during the newlyweds’ first dance, which, unbeknownst to Maddy and the other attendees, happens directly after Naz confronts Nate about his shady business dealings. Zoe Papelis, Vulture, 27 Apr. 2026 May is the last of the better sodding months until fall for shady areas. Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 Apr. 2026 Also outside of the hospital, a shady death takes place that's connected to the organ mix-up, all while Sean and Jonah discover that Greg has 50 to 60 kilograms of dynamite on him. Brenton Blanchet, PEOPLE, 25 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shady

Word History

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shady was in 1579

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shady.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shady. Accessed 28 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

shady

adjective
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 adverb
shadiness noun

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