sheep

noun

plural sheep
often attributive
1
: any of various hollow-horned typically gregarious ruminant mammals (genus Ovis) related to the goats but stockier and lacking a beard in the male
specifically : one (O. aries) long domesticated especially for its flesh and wool
2
a
: a timid defenseless creature
b
: a timid docile person
especially : one easily influenced or led
3
: leather prepared from the skins of sheep : sheepskin

Examples of sheep in a Sentence

he came to see that the members of the cult were sheep who naively went along with whatever their leader dictated
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Later home felt everywhere, radiant waters, thistles, greenest hilltops dotted with sheep, masses of tulips and geese, wandering William’s intricate paths, pausing at every turn, life stretching ahead, mountains of bliss and searing sorrow for years to come. Jennifer Harlan, New York Times, 13 Dec. 2024 The sustainable brand makes latex for its mattresses in California using materials from its own farms, cares for thousands of sheep, and is working toward achieving a zero-waste output in its factory. Paris Wilson, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Dec. 2024 More:No more counting sheep—get a Nolah mattress for 45% off 11. Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 30 Nov. 2024 Tom Campbell: Ramaswamy and Musk have commenced a long-overdue course correction Only when the commons is divided into private property does each owner agree to limit his herd’s grazing so there will be enough for his sheep to eat tomorrow. John Stossel, Orange County Register, 28 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sheep 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English scēap; akin to Old High German scāf sheep

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sheep was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near sheep

Cite this Entry

“Sheep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sheep. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

sheep

noun
plural sheep
1
: any of various cud-chewing mammals that are stockier than the related goats and lack a beard in the male
especially : one raised for its wool, skin, or flesh
2
: a weak helpless person who is easily led

More from Merriam-Webster on sheep

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