Ombres (en. Shadows)
[ɔ̃bʁ]
Meaning & Definition
EnglishFrench
noun
Part of an object that blocks light
The shadows of the trees stretch across the ground.
Les ombres des arbres s'étendent sur le sol.
Visible only under certain conditions, like light
Shadows in the night can be unsettling.
Les ombres dans la nuit peuvent être inquiétantes.
Indistinct figures or shapes
He saw shadows moving in the twilight.
Il a vu des ombres se déplacer dans la pénombre.
Etymology
From the Latin 'umbra', meaning 'shadow' or 'shade'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
shadow and light
Expression evoking the contrast between positive and negative aspects.
ombre et lumière
to play on the shadow
To allude to insinuations or undertones.
jouer sur l'ombre
to have shadows on the board
To have negative points or problems.
avoir des ombres au tableau
Related Words
shaded
That is in the shade, protected from direct light.
ombragé
parasol
A lightweight umbrella used to protect from the sun.
ombrelle
cast shadow
The shadow cast by an object when light hits it.
ombre portée
Slang Meanings
Hidden or complicity issues
He has shadows in his past that he prefers to keep secret.
Il a des ombres dans son passé qu'il préfère garder secrètes.
To have a bad influence on someone
He hangs out with shadows.
Il traîne avec des ombres.