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shadow
/ˈʃædoʊ/
dark area or shape cast by an object blocking light
The tree cast a long shadow on the ground in the afternoon sun.
The tree blocked sunlight, creating a dark shape on the ground.
literal
A dark area or shape produced by a body coming between rays of light and a surface.
The child drew a picture of a house with a shadow under it.
The dark area below the house in the drawing represents where light was blocked.
Shadows change shape and size depending on the position of the light source.
figurative
A weak or lesser version of something; a trace or hint.
There was only a shadow of his former self after the illness.
He was much weaker than before, resembling his past self only slightly.
Often used in expressions like 'shadow of a doubt' or 'shadow of one's former self'.
informal
To follow closely and persistently, especially in a secretive or threatening way.
The detective was shadowed by a suspicious figure all day.
The detective was followed closely and secretly by someone.
Common in contexts like surveillance or stalking.
Collocations
long shadowa shadow that extends far due to low-angle lightin the shadow ofunder the influence or protection of someone/something powerfulshadow of a doubtthe smallest amount of doubtcast a shadowto create a shadow by blocking light
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguishing 'shadow' from 'shade'
'Shadow' refers to the dark shape cast by an object blocking light, while 'shade' refers to a place sheltered from direct sunlight (e.g., 'We sat in the shade of a tree').
Gold Rule
Using 'shadow' as a verb
When 'shadow' is used as a verb, it means to follow closely, often in a secretive way. Example: 'The journalist was shadowed by police during the protest.'
Word Origin
From Old English 'sceadu', related to Old Norse 'skuggi', Old High German 'scato', and Latin 'scutum' (shield). The original sense was 'shade' or 'darkness', later evolving to mean the dark shape cast by an object.
Usage Notes
The word 'shadow' can be used literally (physical darkness) or metaphorically (a faint trace or a follower). In literature, shadows often symbolize mystery, the unknown, or the subconscious.
Word Breakdown
shadow
dark area or shape
rootEnglish Dictionary