Meaning & Definition of word "Shadowing"

Shadowing

/ˈʃædoʊɪŋ/

noun:

  • 1. The act of following and observing someone, often as a way to learn.
    • Example: She was offered a shadowing opportunity with a renowned surgeon.
  • 2. The presence of a shadow or shaded area.
    • Example: The shadowing of the mountains cast an eerie atmosphere over the valley.

verb:

  • 1. To follow and observe someone closely, especially in a learning or mentoring context.
    • Example: The intern spent the week shadowing the senior manager to learn about the company’s operations.
  • 2. To cause a shadow to appear or to shade something.
    • Example: As the sun set, the trees began shadowing the ground, creating a cool, dark space.

Etymology

From the word 'shadow', referring to the act of casting a shadow or closely following.

Common Phrases and Expressions

shadow someone:

To follow someone closely to gain knowledge or skills.

shadow a professional:

To observe the professional behaviors of someone in a specific field.

shadowing program:

A structured program where individuals can observe and learn from experienced practitioners.

Related Words

shadow:

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

mentor:

An experienced and trusted advisor.

observation:

The action or process of observing something or someone carefully.

Slang Meanings of shadowing

Meaning: To mimic or copy someone in a casual way.

Example Sentence: He's always shadowing his older brother, trying to do everything he does.

Meaning: To follow someone without them knowing, often for fun or mischief.

Example Sentence: We spent the day shadowing the new kid just to see where he goes.