shallow
/ˈʃæloʊ/
noun
- A shallow area in a body of water (often used in the plural).
- Fish often gather in the shallows to feed.
- We waded through the shallows to reach the sandy beach.
- The boat got stuck in the shallows near the shore.
adjective
- Having only a short distance from the top to the bottom; not deep.
- The kids played in the shallow end of the pool.
- Be careful — the water here is very shallow, and you might hit the bottom.
- We crossed the river at a shallow spot where the water only reached our knees.
- Not showing serious thought, feeling, or understanding; superficial.
- The movie was entertaining but had a shallow plot.
- Don't be fooled by her shallow compliments; she doesn't really mean them.
- He only cares about looks and money — he's so shallow.
- (of breathing) Taking in only small amounts of air; not deep.
- The patient's breathing was shallow and rapid.
- Try not to take shallow breaths when you're nervous; breathe deeply instead.
- The doctor noticed his shallow breathing and ordered an oxygen mask.
Synonyms
verb
- To become less deep, or to make something less deep.
- Over time, the lake shallowed due to sediment buildup.
- They had to shallow the channel so boats could pass safely.
- The river shallows as it approaches the delta.