shadow

shad•ow

[[t]ˈʃæd oʊ[/t]] n.

1) a dark figure or image cast on the ground or other surface by a body intercepting light

2) shade or comparative darkness

3) shadows, darkness, esp. that coming after sunset

4) shelter or protection

5) a slight suggestion; trace:

beyond the shadow of a doubt[/ex]

6) a specter or ghost

7) a hint or intimation

8) a mere semblance:

the shadow of power[/ex]

9) a reflected image

10) fia (in painting, drawing, graphics, etc.)

the dark part of a picture, esp. as representing the absence of illumination

11) a period or instance of gloom, unhappiness, or the like

12) a dominant or pervasive threat:

the shadow of war[/ex]

13) an inseparable companion

14) a spy or detective

15) to cover with shadow

16) to cast a gloom over; cloud

17) to screen or protect, as from light

18) to follow the movements of secretly

19) to represent faintly, prophetically, etc. (often fol. by forth)

20) archaic to shelter or protect

21) archaic to shade in painting, drawing, etc

22) gov of or pertaining to a shadow cabinet

23) gov without official authority:

a shadow government[/ex]

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Etymology: bef. 900; (n.) ME sch(e) adew(e), schadow, shadw(e), OE scead(u) we, obl. case of sceadu shade; (v.) ME; OE sceadwian to protect, overshadow shad′ow•er, n. shad′ow•less, adj.