Language Research

shade · noun

/ʃeɪd/Full view

shade (NO SUN)

B1 U an area where there is no light from the sun and so it is darker and not as hot

Dictionary examples:

I'd prefer to sit in the shade.

The sun was hot, and there were no trees to offer us shade.

The children played in/under the shade of a large beach umbrella.

Learner example:

The shade from huge trees kept me cool and fresh. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Singhalese)

shade (COLOUR)

B2 C a colour, especially when referring to how dark or light it is

Dictionary example:

a pale/dark shade of grey

Learner example:

Not only was it a beautiful day but the sky was a magnificent shade of blue as well. (First Certificate in English; B2; Catalan)

a shade

C1 a small amount

Dictionary example:

He's perhaps a shade taller.

Learner example:

Their salaries are, even when the same job is done, mostly a shade under a man's salary. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; German)

shade (COVER)

C2 C a cover that stops too much light coming from the sun or from an electric light

Dictionary example:

a lamp shade

Learner example:

You will like sitting there at dark wooden tables, under the light coming from red and white checked lamp shades hanging from the ceiling. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; French)