shady

adjective

ˈshā-dē How to pronounce shady (audio)
shadier; shadiest
Synonyms of shadynext
1
: producing or affording shade
2
: sheltered from the sun's rays
3
a
: of questionable merit : uncertain, unreliable
b
: disreputable
shadily
ˈshā-də-lē How to pronounce shady (audio)
adverb
shadiness
ˈshā-dē-nəs How to pronounce shady (audio)
noun

Synonyms

See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

Examples of shady in a Sentence

Their backyard is nice and shady. I don't trust him. He seems like a pretty shady character.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
It’s implied that before going into construction, Levon had brought his military training into civilian life in some shady (though likely heroic) capacity or another — maybe even kidnap recovery. — Peter Debruge, Variety, 26 Mar. 2025 During a recent conversation with legendary radio host Big Boy, the 26-year-old spoke about her haters and shady tension that led to this notion. — Mya Abraham, VIBE.com, 25 Mar. 2025 After analyzing his journal, Cordelia was able to decipher the diligent log Wynter kept of each criminal statute and ethical code that Lilly broke while working her role at the White House, which included stealing money and securing shady contracts. — Lexy Perez, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 Mar. 2025 To ensure longevity, remove all leaves from the flower stalks when harvested, and hang them upside down in a shady spot for two weeks. — Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shady

Word History

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shady was in 1579

Rhymes for shady

See All Rhymes for shady

Browse Nearby Words

Shadwell
shady
shaffle
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shady.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shady. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

shady

adjective
ˈshād-ē How to pronounce shady (audio)
shadier; shadiest
1
: casting a shadow : giving shade
2
: sheltered from the sun's rays
a shady grove
3
: not right or honest
a shady business deal
shadily
ˈshād-ᵊl-ē How to pronounce shady (audio)
adverb
shadiness
ˈshād-ē-nəs How to pronounce shady (audio)
noun

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