Search Dictionary
Definition of shading

shading

/ˈʃeɪ.dɪŋ/
shad · ing

Plural:shadings
JUMP TO:

shading Lexical Profile

shading Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The representation of light and shadow on a drawing, painting, or map by means of graded marks, lines, or blocks of color to create the illusion of depth and three-dimensionality.

Example

"The art instructor praised the student's careful pencil shading, which gave the portrait a lifelike depth."


2

A slight or subtle variation, gradation, or nuance in color, meaning, or character.

Example

"Translators must pay close attention to the subtle shadings of meaning between seemingly similar words."


3

The act of providing shelter or screening from direct light or heat, or a structure or material used for this purpose.

Example

"Proper architectural shading over south-facing windows can significantly reduce summer cooling costs."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for shading
Antonyms
View all antonyms for shading

• Rhymes for shading

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb 'shade' plus the gerund suffix '-ing', ultimately tracing back to the Old English 'sceadu', meaning shadow, darkness, or protection from glare.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Shading. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/shading
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.