noun / verb
shadow
A dark shape produced when an object blocks light.
The tree casts a long shadow across the sunny lawn.
Etymology
The inherited word names shade or a darkened area. The modern sense focuses on the shape created where an object prevents light from reaching a surface.
More examples
- My hand makes a shadow on the wall beside the lamp.
- The fence posts cast longer shadows as the sun sets.
- The brim of her hat shadows her face.
Forms
shadow · shadows · shadowed · shadowing
shadowy adjective — Full of shadows or dim light.
Similar words
- shade
- Refers to shelter from light rather than a distinct shape.
- silhouette
- Shows a dark outline, not necessarily caused by blocked light.