SHADE

What Does SHADE Mean in a Text?

The Quick Answer

SHADE means "Disrespectful."

More Observations...

The term SHADE is typically accompanied with the verb "to throw." Someone that "throws shade" is publicly criticizing or expressing contempt for another person. Until recently, the word SHADE was mainly used in the gay community and in drag queen culture. However, in recent years it has become much more mainstream. The first known use of SHADE was in the documentary film "Paris Is Burning" (1990), which is based on the Manhattan drag scene in the 1980s.

Image for SHADE

When I write SHADE, I mean this:

SHADE indicates contempt.

Summary of Key Points

"Disrespectful" is, by far, the most common meaning for SHADE when it is used in a text. (Bear in mind that it could have another meaning if used in a different context.)

SHADE
Definition:	Disrespectful
Type:	Slang Word (Jargon)
Guessability:	3: Guessable
Typical Users:	Adults and Teenagers

Examples of SHADE in Sentences

Here are examples of SHADE in conversations:

• Tony: Did you watch RuPaul's Drag Race last night?
• Jordan: Of course! Did you see the SHADE the contestants were throwing?

• Tony: Girl, you call yourself legendary? More like leg and dairy!
• Jordan: Why are you throwing SHADE?

An Academic Look at SHADE

SHADE is typically used as a noun (i.e., a naming word). For example:

• Terry was throwing serious SHADE at Lola last night.
(Here, SHADE is being used as a noun.)

Example of SHADE Used in a Text

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