Sunshades Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sunshades

[ˈsʌnʃeɪdz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

protective

Sunshades are objects designed to protect the eyes from sunlight or bright light. They are often made of tinted or polarized glass or plastic, and can come in various shapes and sizes.

Synonyms

glasses, shades, sunglasses.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sunshades	Used to broadly refer to anything that provides shade from the sun, including sunglasses but also umbrellas or visors. This term is less specific and more generic. I bought new sunshades for my patio. Don't forget your sunshades before heading to the beach.
sunglasses	Specifically used to refer to eyewear designed to protect the eyes from the sun's glare. This is the most formal and widely accepted term. I need a new pair of sunglasses for the summer. She wore sunglasses to protect her eyes from the bright sun.
shades	A casual or informal term for sunglasses, often used in a relaxed or colloquial setting. Popular among younger people. Don't forget your shades before we head out. Cool shades! Where did you get them?
glasses	Commonly refers to eyewear in general, including both prescription lenses for vision correction and sunglasses for protection from the sun. Not specific to sun protection. I need new glasses because my vision has changed. He always wears glasses when reading.

Examples of usage

Please remember to bring your sunshades to the beach to protect your eyes from the strong sunlight.
Her stylish sunshades not only shielded her eyes from the glare but also added a fashionable touch to her outfit.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

vehicle accessory

Sunshades in vehicles are used to block or reduce the amount of sunlight entering through the windows. They can be static or retractable, and are commonly found in cars and vans.

Synonyms

car shade, sun visor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sunshades	Typically refers to sunglasses or protective covers that block out the sun's rays. It is a general term and can be used in a variety of situations. Don't forget your sunshades before you leave for the beach. These sunshades will protect you from the glare while driving.
sun visor	Used to describe a foldable panel attached inside a vehicle, designed to shield the eyes from the sun's glare. It can also refer to headwear designed to block sunlight from the eyes. She pulled down the sun visor to block the bright light. He wore a sun visor while playing tennis to keep the sun out of his eyes.
car shade	Specifically refers to a protective cover used in a car to block out sunlight, usually placed on the windshield or windows. Install the car shade to keep the interior cool. Using a car shade can prevent your dashboard from cracking.

Word

Description / Examples

sunshades

Typically refers to sunglasses or protective covers that block out the sun's rays. It is a general term and can be used in a variety of situations.

Don't forget your sunshades before you leave for the beach.
These sunshades will protect you from the glare while driving.

sun visor

Used to describe a foldable panel attached inside a vehicle, designed to shield the eyes from the sun's glare. It can also refer to headwear designed to block sunlight from the eyes.

She pulled down the sun visor to block the bright light.
He wore a sun visor while playing tennis to keep the sun out of his eyes.

car shade

Specifically refers to a protective cover used in a car to block out sunlight, usually placed on the windshield or windows.

Install the car shade to keep the interior cool.
Using a car shade can prevent your dashboard from cracking.

Examples of usage

The sunshades in the car helped keep the interior cool during the hot summer days.
She installed a sunshade on the rear window to protect her baby from direct sunlight while driving.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The first recorded use of eye protection from the sun dates back to ancient China, where they were made from flat pieces of smoky quartz.
In ancient Rome, Emperor Nero reportedly watched gladiator games through a pair of polished gemstones to protect his eyes.
By the 20th century, sunshades became a popular fashion accessory, initially designed for movie stars before spreading to the general public.

Science

Sunshades help reduce exposure to harmful UV rays, which can lead to eye conditions like cataracts.
Polarized lenses in some sunshades reduce glare by filtering out horizontal light waves, making them ideal for driving or water activities.
Research shows that wearing sunshades can significantly lower eye strain in bright environments, improving overall comfort.

Cultural Significance

In popular culture, sunshades are often associated with celebrities and coolness, symbolizing a laid-back lifestyle.
Movies often depict characters wearing stylish sunshades to enhance their mystique or 'cool' factor, influencing mainstream fashion.
Sunshades are a staple of beach culture, signifying leisure and vacation settings where relaxation is key.

Fashion

Designer brands have created iconic sunshades that feature recognizable styles, such as aviators and cat eyes, becoming fashion statements.
The color and shape of sunshades can express personality; for instance, oversized frames are often seen as bold and chic.
Sustainable fashion has led to the creation of eco-friendly sunshades made from recycled materials, marrying style with a commitment to the planet.

Health

Wearing good-quality sunshades can protect the skin around the eyes from sun damage, reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Some sunshades come with added features like anti-fog or anti-reflective coatings to enhance clarity and comfort during use.
Optometrists recommend using polarized sunshades to reduce the risk of headaches and discomfort caused by bright sunlight.

Origin of 'sunshades'

The term 'sunshades' originated from the combination of 'sun' and 'shades,' referring to the protective nature of the object against sunlight. Sunshades have been used for centuries in various forms to shield the eyes and skin from the sun's rays. Over time, the design and materials used in sunshades have evolved to provide better protection and style.