B2noun1K

Shadow

UK /["/ˈʃædəʊ/"]/US /["/ˈʃædəʊ/"]/

Definition

the dark shape that somebody/something’s form makes on a surface, for example on the ground, when they are between the light and the surface

In simple words: A dark shape made when something blocks light.

Examples

  • The shadow of the tree provided a cool refuge on a hot day.
  • He felt a shadow lurking behind him as he walked alone at night.
  • In psychology, a person's shadow can represent their hidden desires.
  • The artist painted a beautiful landscape with the shadow of mountains in the background.
  • During the eclipse, the moon cast a shadow over the sun.
  • She always felt a shadow of doubt when making important decisions.
  • The villain's shadow loomed large over the town in the story.
  • He tried to avoid the shadow of his past mistakes as he moved forward in life.

Usage notes

Use 'shadow' in various contexts like 'her shadow was long in the evening light'. It's neutral and can refer to both literal and metaphorical meanings, such as 'the shadow of doubt'. Avoid using it in overly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

shadow + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'shadow' following you around like a loyal dog.

Collocations

  • dark
  • deep
  • dense
  • cast
  • create
  • make
  • fall
  • lie
  • get longer
  • among the shadows
  • in the shadows
  • into the shadows
  • live in the shadow of somebody/​something
  • dark
  • deep
  • dense
  • cast
  • create
  • make
  • fall
  • lie
  • get longer
  • among the shadows
  • in the shadows
  • into the shadows
  • live in the shadow of somebody/​something

Synonyms

  • hint

Antonyms

  • light
  • brightness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'shade' — 'shadow' is a specific dark shape while 'shade' refers to a darker area or coolness under an object.
  • Incorrectly pluralized as 'shadows' when talking about one person's shadow.
  • Using 'shadow' to mean ghost when it doesn't imply a supernatural presence.