Synonyms for

Shadows

Verb / ˈʃæˌdəʊz / Another word for shadows — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Shadows are dark areas or shapes that are made when something blocks light.

Synonyms & similar words

vestige tail shade dark darkness phantom phantasma trace shadow shadower overshadow fantasm shadeoff tincture phantasm apparition dwarf silhouettes darkness shade obscurity gloom dimness murkiness penumbra umbrage shadiness twilight duskiness gloominess cloudiness

Synonyms by register

Formal

shade obscurity gloom dimness

Informal

darkness gloominess

Literary

umbra penumbra shade

Antonyms

light brightness illumination radiance sunshine daylight gleam

Common collocations

  • casting a shadow
  • in the shadows
  • shadow of doubt
  • long shadows
  • faint shadow
  • shadow play
  • shadow puppet
  • shadow boxing

Word family

noun shadow
verb shadow
adjective shadowy
adverb shadowily

Usage note

While 'shadow' can refer to literal darkness, it is often used metaphorically to suggest doubt, suspicion, or a lingering presence.

Example sentences

  1. The trees cast long shadows on the ground.
  2. The cat chased his own shadow.
  3. The little girl was scared of the shadows on the wall.
  4. The shadows danced across the room as the fire crackled.
  5. The sun set behind the mountains, leaving only shadows behind.

Quotes

  • 'Without shadows, life would be flat, dull and uninteresting.' - Diane Setterfield
  • 'The brightest flame casts the darkest shadow.' - George R.R. Martin
  • 'The true work of art is but a shadow of the divine perfection.' - Michelangelo

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