Sheep

Definition

The word "sheep" refers to a domesticated ruminant animal (Ovis aries) raised for its wool, meat, and milk. It is also used metaphorically to describe people who are easily influenced or lack independent thought.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃiːp/
• Respelling: SHEEP

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃiːp/
• Respelling: SHEEP

Etymology

The word "sheep" comes from Old English "sceap" or "scep," derived from Proto-Germanic "*skēpą." It shares roots with similar terms in other Germanic languages, such as Dutch "schaap" and German "Schaf," and is ultimately related to Proto-Indo-European "*skei-" meaning "to cut or split," possibly referring to shearing wool.

Derivatives

• Shepherd (noun)
• Sheepherding (noun/verb)
• Sheepskin (noun)
• Shearing (noun/verb)
• Sheepish (adjective)

Synonyms

• Ovine
• Lamb (young sheep)
• Ewe (female sheep)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "sheep" is used both literally and metaphorically. Literal usage includes: "The farmer raises sheep for their wool." Metaphorical usage includes: "He followed the crowd like a sheep."

Related Terms

• Flock: A group of sheep.
• Pasture: Land used for grazing animals like sheep.
• Wool: The soft, curly hair of sheep used in textiles.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A domesticated animal raised for wool, meat, or milk: Refers to the ruminant animal commonly kept for agricultural purposes.
  • Example: "The flock of sheep grazed in the field."
• A timid or easily influenced person: Used metaphorically to describe someone who follows others without question.
  • Example: "He was called a sheep for always agreeing with the majority."
• Sheep as a collective noun: Refers to multiple animals of this species, as "sheep" does not have a separate plural form.
  • Example: "The sheep were counted as they entered the pen."