What does sheepishly mean?
Sheepishly describes the way someone behaves when they feel shy, awkward, embarrassed, or mildly guilty. The word is especially useful for actions that reveal self-consciousness, such as lowering one’s eyes, offering an apologetic smile, or quietly admitting an embarrassing mistake. It often appears in descriptions of a person who is trying not to attract attention while also hinting that something has gone wrong. The expression can be affectionate or humorous rather than harshly critical, as when a writer says that someone smiled sheepishly after being caught in a minor indiscretion. Sheepishly is the adverb derived from the adjective sheepish. Its image is strongly associated with the behavior of sheep as meek, timid animals, although modern usage focuses less on timidity than on embarrassment and social awkwardness. It is a vivid choice when the context is best conveyed through a particular facial expression, gesture, or tone of voice.
adverbIn a shy, awkward, or embarrassed manner, especially while trying to avoid attention or acknowledge something awkward.
- In a shy, awkward, embarrassed, or self-conscious manner, often as if trying to avoid attention or acknowledge an awkward situation.
"He looked at the empty dessert plate and smiled sheepishly."
"She sheepishly admitted that she had already eaten the cookies."
"After the misunderstanding was explained, he gave a sheepish smile and apologized."
Say “sheepishly” and the image writes itself: lowered eyes, a crooked smile, and the distinct sense that someone knows they have been caught.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How sheepishly is actually used
The word is informal to neutral and commonly describes a person’s manner of looking, smiling, speaking, or responding. It usually suggests mild embarrassment, awkwardness, or self-consciousness, and can sometimes suggest mild guilt. Usage is broadly common in both British and North American English.
Easily confused with sheepishly
Sheepishly means in a shy or embarrassed way, whereas shabbily means in a worn, poorly maintained, or unsightly manner.