shade
Shade (noun) means an area of relative darkness where direct sunlight is blocked. Example: “They set up their picnic in the shade of a large oak tree.”
How to use shade
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn area out of direct sun, a variation of a color, or (slang) a sly insult.
"Throw shade" is modern slang meaning to insult someone subtly or disrespectfully.
Trace the full origin ↓Word forms
shaded past tense, shades plural, Shades plural, shades singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
They set up their picnic in the _____ of a large oak tree.
Etymology
From Old English sceadu, "shade, shadow, darkness" — a doublet of the word shadow.
Related words
Rhymes for shade
See all rhymes for shade →Frequently asked questions
What does “shade” mean?
The word “shade” means an area of relative darkness where direct sunlight is blocked. In plain terms, an area out of direct sun, a variation of a color, or (slang) a sly insult.
How do you pronounce “shade”?
“Shade” is pronounced shayd (/ʃeɪd/ in IPA).
How do you use “shade” in a sentence?
Here is “shade” used in a sentence: “They set up their picnic in the shade of a large oak tree.”
What part of speech is “shade”?
Depending on how it is used, “shade” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “shade” come from?
The word “shade” comes from Old English. From Old English sceadu, "shade, shadow, darkness" — a doublet of the word shadow.
Is “shade” a common word?
“Shade” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “shade” have?
“Shade” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an area of relative darkness where direct sunlight is blocked.
What is the difference between "shade" and "shadow"?
"Shade" is a general area of relative darkness where direct sunlight is blocked, such as sitting in the shade of a tree. A "shadow" is the specific dark shape cast by a particular object blocking the light.
What is the difference between a "shade" and a "tint" of a color?
In color terms, a "shade" is a variation of a color, typically a darker version made by adding black. A "tint" is the lighter version, usually made by adding white.
What is the difference between "shade" and "hue"?
A "hue" is the pure color itself, such as red or blue. A "shade" is a particular variation of that color, giving a more specific tone within the same family.
Can "shade" mean both darkness and a color?
Yes. "Shade" can mean an area of relative darkness where sunlight is blocked, and it can also mean a particular variation of a color, such as a lighter or darker shade of green.