Definition of shade into

The term "shade into" is a comprised English idiom which means to gradually and imperceptibly change or transform into something else. Its origins can be traced back to the 17th century, where it was used primarily in literary and poetic contexts. In its earliest known uses, "shade into" was employed to describe a gradual transition between two colors, like "the blue of the sky shades into the green of the grass." This original meaning gradually expanded to encompass other forms of transformation, such as the way sounds or emotions fade into each other. The origin of the phrase "shade into" is believed to have been derived from the Old English word "scæđan," which meant "to cut" or "to carve." This Old English word has evolved over time to take on new meanings, including "to divide" and eventually "to shade" or "to become indistinct." The phrase "shade into" undoubtedly derives from this latter meaning, emphasizing the sense of gradual and imperceptible progression that characterizes many transitions and transformations. Overall, "shade into" has come to be a commonly used idiom in modern English, conveying a sense of fluidity and seamless transition. Its versatility and power of expression have undoubtedly contributed to its enduring popularity over the centuries.