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Definition of shadowbox

shadowbox

/ˈʃæd.oʊˌbɑːks/
shad · ow · box
Plural:shadowboxes
•
Past Simple:shadowboxed
•
Past Participle:shadowboxed
•
Present Participle:shadowboxing
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shadowbox Lexical Profile

shadowbox Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To spar with an imaginary opponent by throwing punches into the air as a form of boxing training or warm-up exercise.

Example

"The athlete shadowboxed in front of the gym mirror to refine her footwork and defensive posture."

2

To engage in cautious, indirect maneuvers or struggle against an elusive, hypothetical, or non-existent problem.

Example

"Instead of addressing the budget deficit directly, the committee spent hours shadowboxing over minor procedural rules."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A shallow enclosed display case with a glass front, used to frame and protect three-dimensional keepsakes, medals, or decorative objects.

Example

"She arranged her grandfather's vintage pocket watch and old photographs inside a wooden shadowbox."

Synonyms
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• Nearby Words

shading
shadow
shadowban
shadowbox
shadowboxing
shadower
shadowing

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Shadowbox. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/shadowbox
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