Shade

Definition

The word "shade" refers to partial darkness or shelter from direct light (noun), or to screen or obscure something (verb).

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃeɪd/
• Respelling: SHAYD

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃeɪd/
• Respelling: SHAYD

Etymology

The word "shade" originates from Old English "sceadu," meaning "shadow" or "protection from sunlight." It is related to the Proto-Germanic "*skadwaz" and Proto-Indo-European "*skoto-," meaning "darkness."

Derivatives

• Shady (adjective)
• Shadeless (adjective)
• Shaded (adjective)
• Shading (noun)
• Shadeful (adjective, archaic)

Synonyms

• Shadow
• Screen
• Cover

Antonyms

• Light
• Exposure
• Brightness

Usage

The term "shade" is used in various contexts, including providing shelter, describing a subtle difference in tone or meaning, or screening something. Examples: "The tree offers shade on a hot day," and "Her painting uses several shades of blue."

Related Terms

• Shadow: A dark area produced by a body blocking light.
• Tint: A slight or pale variation of color.
• Shelter: Protection from adverse conditions.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Partial darkness or shelter from light: Refers to an area shielded from sunlight or artificial light.
  • Example: "They rested in the shade of the large oak tree."
• A subtle variation in color or meaning: Describes slight differences in tone or interpretation.
  • Example: "The walls are painted in a pale shade of green."
• A window covering: Refers to a device used to block light from entering through a window.
  • Example: "She pulled down the shade to keep the room cool."

Verb

• To screen or protect from light: Refers to creating a barrier against light or heat.
  • Example: "The parasol shaded her from the sun."
• To obscure or cast a shadow over: Indicates covering something partially or fully to reduce visibility or clarity.
  • Example: "Clouds shaded the mountain peaks."