shadow play

noun

1. a show in which shadows of puppets, flat figures, or live actors are projected onto a lighted screen.

shadow play

noun

1. a theatrical entertainment using shadows thrown by puppets or actors onto a lighted screen

Word History and Origins

Origin of shadow play¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

In skilfully printed papers of the sort the design often has the effect of a mere shadow-play of form.

From Project Gutenberg

The wajang beber is of very early origin and is a shadow play, shadows of marionettes being shown through a white cloth.

From Project Gutenberg

The servant came with tea, and drew down the upper blinds, shutting out that mocking shadow-play at which Saxham had been staring.

From Project Gutenberg

Was it a moving herd, a shifting mist, a shadow-play between the night and dawn?

From Project Gutenberg

The Indian thinks of this world as a circular and unending journey, an ocean without shore, a shadow play without even a plot.

From Project Gutenberg