Lampshade

//ˈlæmp.ʃeɪd// noun, verb, slang

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    A cover over a lamp to either diffuse the light or to block it in certain directions to avoid glare in the eyes.

    "It was all very well, this Bohemianism of red lamp-shades and cigarettes, but in the cold grey light that filtered through Partridge's grimy windows it did not show to any great advantage."

  2. 2
    a protective ornamental covering for a lamp, used to screen a light bulb from direct view wordnet
Verb
  1. 1
    To intentionally call attention to the improbable, incongruent, or clichéd nature of an element or situation featured in a work of fiction within the work itself. slang

    "Only one short bit of humor is endearing, lampshading the ridiculousness of an eye-mask being able to conceal a superhero's identity."

  2. 2
    To wear an oversize top with skintight thigh-high boots and no leggings.

    "Pants. Who needs them? Definitely not celebrities sporting the lampshading or "no pants" trend this summer."

  3. 3
    To adorn with one or more lampshades.

    "Her hotel sitting-room had, as usual, been flowered, cushioned and lampshaded into a delusive semblance of stability; and she had really felt, for the last few weeks, that the life she was leading there must be going to last — it seemed so perfect an answer to all her wants!"

  4. 4
    To design or create lampshades.

    "Ruth Vitow (160 East 56th Street, 355-6881) has been the doyenne of lampshading for 30 years. She makes up designs in all categories, and her own custom lamps of Lucite and wood."

Etymology

Etymology 1

From lamp + shade. The verb sense comes from the idea of making something more conspicuous by hanging a lampshade on it.

Etymology 2

From lamp + shade. The verb sense comes from the idea of making something more conspicuous by hanging a lampshade on it.

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