umbra
[ˈʊm.bra]
The English word "shadow" is translated into Latin as umbra.
umbra refers to an area protected by an obstacle.
Meaning: area protected by an obstacle (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The word umbra changes its form depending on its grammatical role in a sentence. Use umbrae to mean "of the shadow" (genitive singular). Use umbram when the shadow is the direct object of a verb (accusative singular). To express "by", "with" or "from" shadows, use the plural form umbris (ablative plural).
Did you know?
- The Latin word umbra is the ancestor of the English word 'umbrella', as an umbrella is literally a 'little shadow' used to protect you from the sun.
- Romans also called an uninvited guest whom an invited guest brought along to dinner an umbra, a shadow that follows its owner.
Examples in context
- Dies mei sicut umbra declinaverunt.My days are like a shadow that declines.This sentence shows how the word umbra can be used in a simile regarding the passing of time.Tatoeba #2819173 by carlosalberto, translation #2819187 by carlosalberto
- In umbra patris sui clarissimi vivit.He lives in the shadow of his famous father.This sentence illustrates the use of umbra to describe living under the influence or protection of someone.Tatoeba #12137055 by carlosalberto, translation #12137038 by carlosalberto
- Gloria virtutem tanquam umbra sequitur.Glory follows virtue as if it were its shadow.This sentence uses umbra to compare the way glory follows virtue.Tatoeba #3742763 by bandeirante, translation #3742176 by patgfisher
- Umbra arboris frigus offert.The shadow of the tree provides coolness.
- 6 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julia and Lucius are walking in the hot sun.
- JuliaSolem nimis sentio.I feel the sun too much.
- LuciusVeni in hanc umbram.Come into this shadow.
- JuliaGratias, hic est refrigerium.Thanks, it is cool here.
- LuciusIta, umbra nos servat.Yes, the shadow protects us.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry umbra, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries umbra, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
