Tech Translator
Throwing Shade
Teen slang, explained for parents.
What it means
Subtly criticizing or insulting someone, often without naming them directly. "She was throwing shade at her sister all night." The art of the indirect put-down. Older slang that has stuck around because it is actually useful for describing the behavior.
How to bring it up with your kid
No concern at the word level. If you notice them describing actual shade-throwing as fun, that is a moment to ask: "Was that funny or was someone being hurt?" Helps them notice the line between humor and harm.