sheep

noun

ˈshēp How to pronounce sheep (audio)
plural sheep
Synonyms of sheepnext
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

Synonyms of sheep

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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.
The huts, which are available for rent, provide shelter to backcountry skiers, hikers, sheep herders and others exploring the state’s alpine wilderness. — Tiney Ricciardi, Denver Post, 30 July 2026 In California, where the size and intensity of wildfires have increased, 400 goats and 100 sheep have been deployed in Fresno to graze on yellow star thistle, a weed that can help to spread fires. — Lea Tran, TheWeek, 29 July 2026 This $100,000 luxury vehicle feels a little too nice to load sheep into, but the cargo bed is huge, towing capacity is strong, and the view from behind the steering wheel is commanding. — Andrew P. Collins, The Drive, 29 July 2026 In this peaceful spot, there’s nothing to hear but cowbells, baa-ing sheep and the breeze. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 July 2026 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

Phrases Containing sheep

Rhymes for sheep

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Browse Nearby Words

sheeny
sheep
sheep's-bane
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sheep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sheep. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sheep

noun
ˈshēp How to pronounce sheep (audio)
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

Nglish: Translation of sheep for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sheep

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