noun
- a definite area of shade cast upon a surface by a body intercepting the light rays
- the dark image made by such a body
- the growing darkness after sunset
- a feeling of gloom or depression, a suggestion of doubt, etc.
- anything causing gloom, doubt, etc.
- a shaded area in a picture or X-ray
- a dark area, as of a very short growth of beard
- a mirrored image; reflection
- something without reality or substance; imaginary vision
- a ghost; apparition
- a vague indication or omen; prefiguration: coming events cast their shadows before
- a faint suggestion or appearance; trace: not a shadow of hope
- remnant; vestige: a mere shadow of his former self
- a close or constant companion
- ☆ a person who trails another closely, as a detective or spy
- Rare protection or shelter
Origin:
ME schadwe < inflected forms (gen. & dat. sceadwe) of OE sceadu, shade