What does sheep mean?
A sheep is a domesticated mammal raised for wool, meat, and milk. The word commonly refers collectively to the species, while individual animals may be called rams, ewes, or lambs according to sex and age. Sheep are social grazing animals and are usually described as living in a flock. The word can also be used figuratively for a person who is meek, timid, or easily influenced. In the verb form “to sheep,” it means to treat someone with contempt or disregard, usually by isolating or excluding them. Although sheep are sometimes stereotyped as unintelligent, they possess a well-developed flocking instinct and can recognize familiar individuals. In ordinary usage, “sheep” is an everyday word with a mostly neutral meaning, though it may carry a dismissive or humorous implication when applied to people.
A domesticated mammal, Ovis aries, kept for its wool, meat, and milk.
"The shepherd counted the sheep before dusk."
To treat someone contemptuously or unfairly, especially by excluding or disregarding them.
"The committee sheeps the new employee by refusing to include her in discussions."
The plural is the same as the singular: one sheep, many sheep.
"A shepherd was leading the sheep across the hill."
A sheep’s sense of direction is famously poor, but its ability to recognize individual flock members is surprisingly strong.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sheep come from?
The word descends from Old English sceap, the common Germanic word for the animal. Related forms include Dutch schaap and German Schaf, reflecting a shared Germanic origin. The modern spelling “sheep” developed through the regular historical changes affecting Old English vowel sounds and the consonant sequence represented by Old English sc-. English has retained the same form for both the singular and plural, a usage shared with several related languages.
Related word forms
How sheep is actually used
The noun is standard in British and American English. “Sheep” is also a mildly dismissive term for a meek or easily influenced person. The verb “to sheep” is relatively uncommon and generally means to treat someone in a contemptuous or ostracizing way.