Definition of: shade

(shād) v. shad·ed, shad·ing v.t.
1. To screen from light by intercepting its rays; put in shade.
2. To make dim with or as with shade; darken; overcast.
3. To screen or protect with or as with a shade.
4. To cause to change, pass, blend, or soften, by gradations.
5 a To represent (degrees of shade, colors, etc.) by gradations of light or dark lines or shading, b To represent varying shades, colors, etc., in (a picture or painting) thus.
6. To make slightly lower, as a price.
—v.i.
7. To change or vary by degrees. [<noun]
—noun
1. Relative obscurity from interception of the rays of light: distinguished from shadow; hence, gloom; darkness; obscurity; the state of being outshone.
2. A shady place; secluded retreat.
3. Something that serves to intercept or screen from light; hence, a screen that shuts off light, heat, air, dust, etc.
4. A gradation of color; also, slight degree; minute difference.
5. The unilluminated part of a picture, drawing, or engraving: opposed to light.
6. A disembodied spirit; ghost; something unreal.
7. plural Slang Sunglasses. See synonyms under SPECTER.
—the shades The abode of departed spirits; Hades. [OE sceadu]
—shade′less adjective