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.
Manderley Farm is idyllic, with its picturesque rolling hills filled with sheep. Lois Alter Mark, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 Alex's owner's TikTok channel is filled with sweet videos of baby lambs out in the fields, as well as older sheep and rams being shown at championships and shows. William Lambers, Newsweek, 7 Mar. 2025 Wolves in Colorado have killed 19 head of cattle, nine sheep and one llama since the reintroduction process began in December 2023, according to CPW. Elise Schmelzer, The Denver Post, 6 Mar. 2025 Browsing and trampling by sheep and cattle also created these pastures. Matthew Wills, JSTOR Daily, 4 Mar. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sheep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sheep. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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