shadow

shadow [shad′ō]

n.

[ME schadwe < inflected forms (gen. & dat. sceadwe) of OE sceadu, SHADE]

1. a definite area of shade cast upon a surface by a body intercepting the light rays

2. the dark image made by such a body

3. [pl.] the growing darkness after sunset

4.

a) a feeling of gloom or depression, a suggestion of doubt, etc.

b) anything causing gloom, doubt, etc.

5. a shaded area in a picture or X-ray

6. a dark area, as of a very short growth of beard

7. a mirrored image; reflection

8.

a) something without reality or substance; imaginary vision

b) a ghost; apparition

9. a vague indication or omen; prefiguration [coming events cast their shadows before]

10.

a) a faint suggestion or appearance; trace [not a shadow of hope]

b) remnant; vestige [a mere shadow of his former self]

11. a close or constant companion

☆ 12. a person who trails another closely, as a detective or spy

13. Rare protection or shelter

vt.

1. Archaic

a) to shelter from light or heat

b) to shelter; protect

2. to throw a shadow upon

3. to make dark or gloomy; cloud

4. to represent vaguely, mystically, or prophetically; prefigure: often with forth

5. to stay close to or follow, esp. in secret so as to observe the movements and activities of

vi.

1. to change gradually

2. to become shadowy or clouded (with doubt, sorrow, etc.): said of the features

adj.

1. of or belonging to a SHADOW CABINET [a shadow minister]

2. darker, indistinct, not plainly perceived, etc.

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in the shadow of or under the shadow of

1. very close to; verging upon

2. under the influence or domination of

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under the shadow of

in danger of; apparently fated for

shadower

n.

shadowless

adj.