lampshade

American  

[lamp-sheyd] / ˈlæmpˌʃeɪd /

noun

1. a shade, usually translucent or opaque, for shielding the glare of a light source in a lamp or for directing the light to a particular area.

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Etymology

Origin of lampshade

First recorded in 1840–50; lamp + shade

Explanation

A lampshade is a decorative cover that diffuses a lightbulb's brightness. Besides looking pretty, lampshades also prevent a light's glare from temporarily blinding you. If the naked bulb on your lamp casts a stark and blinding light, try putting a lampshade on top. This device does just what its name implies, shading the lamp's light in a pleasant way. Lampshades can be made of fabric, plastic, glass, or paper, and they come in an enormous variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Early 20th-century vaudeville performers created the enduring trope of a man with a lampshade on his head as the wacky life of the party.

Example Sentences

After her mother died, Ms Kynaston and her siblings thought it would be a good time to find a new home for the lampshade piece.

From BBC • May 5, 2025

“While she thoughtfully sources lampshade frames from a local artisan and uses 100% compostable components for shipping, it’s the wood she utilizes in her designs that highlight her unwavering dedication to the environment,” he says.

From Los Angeles Times • May 2, 2023

In a video released by his campaign in August 2020, Biden is seen backing the car into the garage, where a messy pile of materials appears to include a cardboard box and a lampshade.

From Washington Post • Jan. 13, 2023

These are clearly not designed to be hidden in a lampshade but, rather, to be on display as beautiful light bulbs in open fixtures.

From The Verge • Aug. 26, 2022

He heard a muffled explosion and saw a green flash of light inside the giant pink lampshade of the monster’s body.

From "The Mark of Athena" by Rick Riordan