Search results for 'shade':

shade noun 1 the blocking or partial blocking out of sunlight, or the relative darkness caused by this. 2 an area from which sunlight has been completely or partially blocked. 3 any device used to modify direct light, eg a lampshade. 4 a device, eg a screen, used as a shield from direct heat, light, etc. 5 US a window-blind. 6 an obscure area or location. 7 a dark or shaded area in a drawing or painting. 8 the state of appearing less impressive than something or someone else • He always lived in the shade of his brother's achievements • Her singing puts mine in the shade. 9 a colour, especially one similar to but slightly different from a principal colour • a lighter shade of blue. 10 a small amount; a touch • My house is a shade smaller than that. 11 (shades) colloq sunglasses. 12 literary a ghost. verb (shaded, shading) 1 to block or partially block out sunlight from someone or something. 2 to draw or paint so as to give the impression of shade. 3 (usually shade off or away) to change gradually or unnoticeably. shadeless adj. in the shade 1 sheltered from strong light or heat. 2 overlooked or forgotten; in relative obscurity.
ETYMOLOGY: Anglo-Saxon sceadu.