L’ombre (en. The shadow)
/l‿ɔ̃bʁ/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishFrench
noun
Dark area caused by the obstruction of a light source.
The child was hiding in the shadow of the trees.
L’enfant se cachait dans l’ombre des arbres.
Consequences or hidden aspects of a situation.
There are many shadows in this matter.
Il y a beaucoup d’ombres dans cette affaire.
A reflection or indistinct silhouette.
She thought she saw a shadow behind her.
Elle a cru voir une ombre derrière elle.
Etymology
From the Latin 'umbra', meaning 'shadow'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to see in the shadow
Understanding hidden aspects of a situation.
voir dans l’ombre
the shadow of a doubt
A lingering uncertainty.
l'ombre d'un doute
to be in someone's shadow
To be less visible than someone else.
être dans l'ombre de quelqu'un
Related Words
shaded
Protected from light by a shadow.
ombragé
parasol
A lightweight umbrella often used for sun protection.
ombrelle
to darken
To make something darker.
assombrir
Slang Meanings
To be in the shadows
He works in the shadows, without attracting attention.
Il travaille dans l'ombre, sans attirer l'attention.
To be a shadow
He is just a shadow in this company.
Il est juste une ombre dans cette entreprise.