WordLens

shade

1 of 2noun
/ʃeɪd/
Forms:shades
1

an area that becomes darker and cooler because sunlight is blocked by an object

B1Learn more on Wikipedia
  • They sat under the shade of a large oak tree to escape the heat.
  • The garden bench was placed in the shade for comfort.
  • The cat lounged in the shade on the sunny porch.
  • Thick clouds created a temporary shade over the field.
  • The hikers rested in the shade of a cliff.
2

any variation of one color, including darker or lighter versions

B2

Shade refers to any variation of a particular color, whether it is lighter, darker, or slightly different in hue. It is a broad term used to describe how a color can look different depending on its intensity or lightness. For example, the color blue, its shades could include sky blue, navy blue, or teal. People use the term "shade" to talk about different versions of a color they see in clothing, paint, or nature.

  • She carefully selected the perfect shade of blue for the walls of her bedroom, aiming for a calming and tranquil atmosphere.
  • The artist used various shades of green to capture the lush foliage and vibrant landscapes in their paintings.
  • The sunset painted the sky in brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a breathtaking display of colors.
  • He struggled to find the right shade of lipstick to match her dress for the evening.
3

a covering or blind used to block or reduce sunlight, typically on windows

A shade is a type of window treatment that is designed to cover a window and control the amount of light that enters a room. Shades are typically made of fabric or natural materials like bamboo or wood, and are available in a variety of styles and colors. They can be installed inside or outside the window frame and can be operated manually or with a motorized system. Some shades, like roller shades or honeycomb shades, are designed to provide insulation and energy efficiency, helping to keep a room warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Shades can be a practical and stylish addition to any room, providing privacy and light control while also enhancing the overall decor of the space.

  • She pulled down the shade to keep the room cool.
  • Venetian shades allowed sunlight to filter gently into the office.
  • The bedroom shades were drawn to darken the room for sleeping.
  • Decorative shades added privacy while letting in light.
  • The café installed new shades to protect diners from glare.
4

a cover for a lamp designed to screen the bulb and diffuse the light

  • He replaced the broken lamp shade with a new one.
  • Antique lamps often have decorative shades.
  • A dark shade directs light downward for reading.
  • She chose a colorful shade to match the bedroom décor.
  • The table lamp had a silk shade that diffused the glow beautifully.
5

a slight difference in meaning, opinion, or feeling

  • There is a shade of doubt in her explanation.
  • The debate highlighted every shade of opinion on the matter.
  • Linguists study the subtle shades of meaning between words.
  • He noticed a shade of sarcasm in her tone.
  • Political positions often involve small shades of agreement or disagreement.
6

the depiction of shadow or darkness in an artwork to create depth or contrast

  • The painter added shades to the hills to give a sense of depth.
  • Pencil shading creates realistic shades on paper.
  • She used light and dark shades to make the portrait lifelike.
  • Watercolors allow gentle transitions between shades.
  • The artist studied the shade of the tree cast on the ground.
7

a lingering mental image or memory of a haunting experience, often ghostlike or unsettling

  • He carried the shade of that tragic night in his memory.
  • The old house seemed haunted by a shade of the past.
  • The diary recalled shades of regret and loss.
  • Childhood fears can leave a persistent shade on adulthood.
  • She felt a shade of unease as she walked down the empty street.
8

a state or position of lesser importance compared with someone or something else

  • The new manager worked in the shade of the CEO.
  • His talents were in the shade compared to his older brother's.
  • In the department, she remained in the shade of senior colleagues.
  • The small firm operated in the shade of industry giants.
  • The actor lived long in the shade before achieving fame.