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sombra means shade — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: February 20, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

sombra

noun • /[SOM-bra]/

shade

Example:

Pongamos la toalla en la sombra.

Let’s put the towel in the shade.

🧠 What does sombra mean?

Sombra is a feminine noun that primarily refers to the relative darkness created when an object blocks light. It has two main translations: 'shade', which is the coolness and darkness provided by something out of the sun, and 'shadow', the dark shape an object casts on a surface. Figuratively, 'sombra' can also denote gloom, sadness, or a faint trace or hint of something.

📚 Extra examples

  • En verano, siempre buscamos la sombra de un árbol.
    In summer, we always look for the shade of a tree.
  • El edificio alto proyectaba una larga sombra sobre la calle.
    The tall building cast a long shadow over the street.
  • Noté una sombra de duda en su voz.
    I noticed a hint of doubt in his voice.
  • El artista usó luces y sombras para dar profundidad al cuadro.
    The artist used light and shadows to give depth to the painting.

💡 Did You Know?

In the world of cosmetics, the term for 'eyeshadow' in Spanish is 'sombra de ojos'. Additionally, the idiomatic expression 'ni por sombra' is a strong way to say 'not at all' or 'by no means', as in 'No se parece a su hermano ni por sombra' (He doesn't resemble his brother in the slightest).

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "sombra"

Synonyms: oscuridad, penumbra, tinieblas
Opposites: luz, sol, claridad

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'shade' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'shade' in Spanish is 'sombra'.
How do you pronounce 'sombra' in Spanish?
Sombra is pronounced /'som.bɾa/. The stress is on the first syllable, 'som'. The 'r' is a single tapped sound.
How do you use 'sombra' in a sentence?
As a feminine noun, it is used with feminine articles like 'la' or 'una'. For example, 'Nos sentamos en la sombra' (We sat in the shade). It can also refer to a shadow: 'El niño tenía miedo de su propia sombra' (The child was afraid of his own shadow).
What is the English translation of 'sombra'?
The English translation of 'sombra' is 'shade' or 'shadow'. Figuratively, it can also mean 'gloom' or a 'hint'.
Does 'sombra' change for gender or number?
Sombra is a feminine noun, so it does not change for gender. Its plural form is 'sombras'. For example: 'Las sombras de los árboles se alargaban' (The shadows of the trees were getting longer).
Is 'sombra' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'sombra' is a very common and essential word in Spanish, used frequently in conversations about weather, light, art, and emotions.
Does 'sombra' have slang or double meanings?
Yes, it has several established secondary meanings. 'Sombra de ojos' is the standard term for 'eyeshadow'. In a figurative sense, 'estar en la sombra' can mean to be in the background or be overshadowed by someone else.
Is 'sombra' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meanings of 'sombra' are universal across the Spanish-speaking world. While some regional idioms might exist, its primary use as 'shade' and 'shadow' is consistent everywhere.

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