Synonyms for

Sheep

Verb / ʃi:p / Another word for sheep — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a domesticated mammal with thick woolly fur, kept for its meat or milk

Synonyms & similar words

ram ewe lamb mutton wool fleece livestock ruminant ovine shearer herder pasture graze browse feed chew bleat baa mooch flock

Synonyms by register

Formal

flock herd congregation

Informal

drones followers lemmings

Literary

lambs woolly ones

Antonyms

leader innovator maverick individualist pioneer rebel

Common collocations

  • black sheep
  • ewe lamb
  • sheep dog
  • sheep count
  • sheep shearer
  • wool of sheep
  • sheepishly grin

Word family

noun sheep
verb shepherd
adjective sheepish

Usage note

The term 'sheep' is often used metaphorically to describe people who are easily led or lack independent thought. The adjective 'sheepish' describes an embarrassed or shy demeanor.

Example sentences

  1. The sheep in the field were fluffy and white.
  2. My grandma knitted me a sweater from the wool of her sheep.
  3. The farmer sheared the sheep to collect their wool.
  4. The little lamb followed its mother around the field.
  5. The shepherd led his flock of sheep to the pasture.

Quotes

  • A sheep, a beef, and a horse entered a bar. The bartender says, 'Sorry, we don't serve food.' - Anonymous
  • A leader is like a shepherd. He stays behind the flock, letting the most nimble go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realizing that all along they are being directed from behind. - Nelson Mandela
  • You can't throw a rock in West Virginia without hitting a church or a sheep, or both. - John Corbett

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