noun

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. the growing darkness after sunset
4. 1. a feeling of gloom or depression, a suggestion of doubt, etc.
   2. 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. 1. something without reality or substance; imaginary vision
   2. a ghost; apparition
9. a vague indication or omen; prefiguration coming events cast their shadows before
10. 1. a faint suggestion or appearance; trace not a shadow of hope
    2. 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

Etymology: ME schadwe < inflected forms (gen. & dat. sceadwe) of OE sceadu, shade

transitive verb

1. Archaic
   1. to shelter from light or heat
   2. 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

intransitive verb

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

adjective

1. of or belonging to a shadow cabinet a shadow minister
2. darker, indistinct, not plainly perceived, etc.