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Shadow - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A shadow is a dark area or shape formed when an object blocks light. It appears on surfaces opposite the light source and changes with the object’s position.

shadow

/ˈʃædoʊ/ /ˈʃædəʊ/

Definition:

A dark area or shape produced by an object blocking light.

Synonyms:

shade, silhouette, gloom, umbra

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

light, brightness

Common Collocations:

cast a shadow, in the shadow of, shadow of doubt, shadow play

Derivatives:

shadowy, shadowed, overshadow

Usage Tips:

Use "shadow" as a noun for darkness or as a verb meaning to follow closely.

Common Phrases:

afraid of one's own shadow, beyond a shadow of a doubt, five o'clock shadow

Etymology:

From Old English "sceadwe," related to "shade" and "shed."

Examples:

  • 1. The tree cast a long shadow in the afternoon sun.
  • 2. She felt someone shadowing her as she walked home.
  • 3. His face was hidden in the shadows of the room.
  • 4. The detective followed the suspect like a silent shadow.

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