shadowy

adjective, shad·ow·i·er, shad·ow·i·est.

1. resembling a shadow in faintness, slightness, etc.: shadowy outlines.
2. unsubstantial, unreal, or illusory: shadowy preoccupations.
3. abounding in shadow; shady: a shadowy path.
4. enveloped in shadow.
5. casting a shadow.

adjective

1. full of shadows; dark; shady
2. resembling a shadow in faintness; vague
3. illusory or imaginary
4. mysterious or secretivea shadowy underworld figure

adj.late 14c., shadewy, “full of shadows,” also “transitory, fleeting, unreal;” see shadow (n.) + -y (2). From 1797 as “faintly perceptible.” Related: Shadowiness. Old English had sceadwig “shady.”