shade

[ʃeɪd]

shade Definition

• 1. an area of darkness created when a source of light is blocked
• 2. a color, especially with regard to how light or dark it is or as distinguished from one nearly like it
• 3. a 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

• shadow
• darkness
• dimness
• obscurity
• shelter

Antonyms for shade

• light
• brightness

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.