What does "shady" mean?

1. (sheltered from the sun) protected from direct sunlight by trees, buildings, or other objects. 2. (dishonest or suspicious) seeming dishonest, illegal, or untrustworthy. 3. (mean or unkind) acting in a way that is mean, rude, or unfair to someone.

How do you use "shady"?

Often used to describe outdoor locations or paths.

shady

adj.

US //ˈʃeɪdi// UK //ʃˈeɪdi// shady

1 sheltered from the sun (adj.)
B1 Intermediate

protected from direct sunlight by trees, buildings, or other objects.

providing or situated in shade; sheltered from direct sunlight.

Example

We found a shady spot under a large oak tree to have our picnic.

Example

The garden features several shady alcoves where delicate ferns can thrive away from the harsh afternoon sun.

Usage

Often used to describe outdoor locations or paths.
2 dishonest or suspicious (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

seeming dishonest, illegal, or untrustworthy.

of questionable honesty or legality; disreputable in character or conduct.

Example

I decided not to buy the phone because the seller seemed a bit shady.

Example

The company was investigated after several shady financial transactions were discovered by the internal auditors.

Teacher's tip

In modern slang, 'throwing shade' is a related idiom meaning to publicly show contempt or disrespect for someone.

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3 mean or unkind (adj.)
C1 Advanced British English Slang

acting in a way that is mean, rude, or unfair to someone.

characterised by unkindness, spite, or unfair treatment of others.

Example

It was really shady of him to cancel our plans at the last minute without telling me.

Example

The way she excluded her former best friend from the party was considered quite shady by the rest of the group.
- kind
- fair

Origin

From shade + -y. Compare Saterland Frisian skaadich, skaddich (“shady”), German schattig (“shady”).