Shadow

/ˈʃædoʊ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A dark area or shape produced by a body coming between rays of light and a surface.

The tree cast a long shadow on the ground as the sun set.

A reflected image that is indistinct or faint.

She saw a shadow moving in the distance and felt a chill run down her spine.

An inseparable companion.

He followed his mentor like a shadow, learning from him every step of the way.

verb

To follow someone closely, often unnoticed.

The detective shadowed the suspect throughout the city.

To create a shade or shadow over something.

The clouds shadowed the valley, bringing a sudden drop in temperature.

Old English 'sceadu' meaning 'shade, shadow, darkness'

cast a shadow

to create a feeling of gloom or suspicion

in someone's shadow

remaining unnoticed or overshadowed by someone more prominent

to shadow someone

to follow someone closely and secretly

shade

An area of darkness caused by obstruction of light.

silhouette

The dark shape or outline of someone or something.

darkness

The absence of light; a state of being dark.

A person who is overly quiet or shy.

He's such a shadow at parties, just standing in the corner.

To closely follow or imitate someone.

She's always shadowing her older sister.