Synonyms for

Herds

Verb / hɜ:dz / Another word for herds — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Herds means a large group of animals, especially cows, sheep, or goats, that are kept together.

Synonyms & similar words

ruck crowd herd flock group pack collection assembly crowd company mob throng cluster swarm horde troop gang team tribe posse bunch mass array

Synonyms by register

Formal

flocks crowds throngs assemblages

Informal

groups gangs packs clumps

Literary

multitudes swarms companies

Antonyms

individual solitary loner isolate single apart

Common collocations

  • large herds
  • wild herds
  • herds of cattle
  • herds of animals
  • herds of sheep
  • herds of elephants
  • herds of deer

Word family

noun herd
verb herd

Usage note

While 'herd' can refer to any group of animals, it is most commonly associated with grazing mammals. It can also be used metaphorically for people, often with a negative connotation of unthinking conformity.

Example sentences

  1. The herds of sheep were moving slowly across the meadow.
  2. The farmer managed the herds of cows and goats.
  3. The herds of wild horses were running free in the hills.
  4. The herds of antelopes were grazing on the savannah.
  5. The herds of reindeer were migrating through the Arctic tundra.

Quotes

  • The herd instinct among economists makes sheep look like independent thinkers.
  • The herd seek out the great, not for their sake but for their influence; and the great welcome them out of vanity or need.
  • I'm not a herd animal. I don't follow what people do.

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