an area of darkness created when a source of light is blocked, a color, especially with regard to how light or dark it is or as distinguished from one nearly like it, a position of relative inferiority or obscurity; a lowly or out-of-the-way place

throw shade, in the shade, give shade

Formal and Informal Expressions of shade

In different contexts, you can replace 'shade' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'shadow, darkness' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'cover, protection' is a commonplace synonym.

shade: Explore its Definition & Usage

shade Definition

1an area of darkness created when a source of light is blocked
2a color, especially with regard to how light or dark it is or as distinguished from one nearly like it
3a position of relative inferiority or obscurity; a lowly or out-of-the-way place

Using shade: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "shade" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The tree provided shade from the hot sun.
Example
The room was painted in shades of blue.
Example
He lived in the shade of his famous father.
Example
She threw shade at her ex-boyfriend during the interview.

shade Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for shade

Antonyms for shade

Phrases with shade

throw shade
to make a subtle or indirect insult or criticism
Example
She threw shade at her co-worker's outfit during the meeting.
in the shade
in a position of relative inferiority or obscurity
Example
He lived in the shade of his famous father.
give shade
to protect or shelter someone or something from the sun
Example
The tree gave shade to the picnic area.

Origins of shade

from Old English 'sceadu', meaning 'shadow, darkness'

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Summary: shade in Brief

The term 'shade' [ʃeɪd] refers to an area of darkness created by blocking a source of light, a color, or a position of relative inferiority or obscurity. It can be used to describe a physical space, as in 'The tree provided shade from the hot sun,' or a metaphorical one, as in 'He lived in the shade of his famous father.' 'Shade' can also be used idiomatically, such as 'throw shade,' which means to make a subtle insult or criticism.