Shadowed

/ˈʃædoʊd/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to cast a shadow over or to obscure from view.
The trees shadowed the path, making it a cool retreat on a hot day.
to follow someone closely, often secretly, to observe them.
The detective shadowed the suspect to gather evidence.
to provide a background or dark contrast that makes something else appear brighter or clearer.
The vivid colors of the painting were shadowed by the dark frame.
to represent someone or something as less important.
His achievements were often shadowed by his colleagues' successes.
to put someone in a position of lesser prominence or importance.
Her talent often shadowed by her overbearing partner.
adjective
having shadows; dim or dark.
The shadowed corners of the room made it feel eerie at night.
hidden or not fully visible.
He was a shadowed figure in the background of the photograph.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English 'sceadu' meaning 'shade, shadow'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

in someone's shadow
To be less prominent or successful than someone else.
shadow of a doubt
A phrase indicating great certainty.
shadowing
The act of closely following or observing someone.

Related Words

shadow
A dark shape produced by an object blocking light.
shade
A region where light is blocked.
silhouette
The dark shape and outline of someone or something.

Slang Meanings

To imitate or copy someone closely.
He was shadowing his boss to learn how to manage.
To be a lackey or subordinate to someone.
She's always shadowing her older brother around.