shadows

word · lemma: shadow

/ˈʃæˌdoʊz/
SHA-dohz
/ʃˈædəʊz/
SHA-dohz

Definition

Dark shapes that appear when light is blocked by a person, object, or animal. It can also refer more generally to dark areas or a feeling of something hidden or not fully clear.

Usage & Nuances

Usually countable: 'a shadow', 'long shadows'. Common with 'cast', 'see', 'stand in', and 'in the shadows'. 'Shadow' can also be figurative, especially for secrecy, fear, or a bad influence. Do not confuse it with 'shade', which often means protection from sunlight.

Example Sentences

The trees made long shadows on the road.

basic

I saw two shadows on the wall.

basic

At sunset, our shadows looked very big.

basic

The room was so dark that everything turned into shadows.

natural

For years, the truth stayed hidden in the shadows.

natural

As kids, we used to make animal shadows with our hands.

natural