shadowy

[ shad-oh-ee ]

adjective

, shad·ow·i·er, shad·ow·i·est.

1. resembling a shadow in faintness, slightness, etc.:

   shadowy outlines.

2. unsubstantial, unreal, or illusory:

   shadowy preoccupations.

3. abounding in shadow; shady:

   a shadowy path.

4. enveloped in shadow.
5. casting a shadow.

shadowy

/ ˈʃædəʊɪ /

adjective

1. full of shadows; dark; shady
2. resembling a shadow in faintness; vague
3. illusory or imaginary
4. mysterious or secretive

   a shadowy underworld figure

Derived Forms

• ˈshadowiness, noun

Other Words From

• shadow·i·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of shadowy¹

First recorded in 1325–75, shadowy is from the Middle English word shadewy. See shadow, -y ¹

Example Sentences

It all percolates in the shadowy urban allure of Paul Guilhaume’s cinematography, especially as it plays across its leading ladies’ faces, turning skin into a mood palette, burnishing all the musical interludes.

From Los Angeles Times

And now, at the eleventh hour, a shadowy group is barging in to muddy the waters even further.

From Slate

On the show, which airs every day, a collection of guest hosts regale listeners with shadowy tales of the evils of the left, of the global power structures plotting against American patriots, and of the immigrants who threaten the very stability of the country.

From Slate

The biggest takeaway had to do with the shadowy political operatives—including Steve Bannon, Michael Flynn, and Roger Stone—who have spent the past four years pushing dangerous and wild election conspiracy theories in hopes they will be rewarded once more.

From Slate

To love a Scorpio, then, is to fiercely protect their softness with the same shadowy ardor that they use to construct their inner adamantine fortresses.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• dark
• ghostly
• shady