Synonyms for

Shepherd

Verb / ˈʃepɜ:d / Another word for shepherd — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A person who takes care of sheep and guides them.

Synonyms & similar words

sheepherder sheepman herder pastor guardian caretaker rancher grazier cowboy cowherd drover stockman goatherd swineherd veterinarian sheepman

Synonyms by register

Formal

herder custodian caretaker guardian

Informal

guy dude fella chap

Literary

pastor shepherdess

Antonyms

destroyer hunter predator owner master oppressor

Common collocations

  • shepherd a flock
  • shepherd the sheep
  • shepherd the herd
  • shepherd the group
  • shepherd the people
  • shepherd the lost
  • shepherd the stray

Word family

noun shepherd
verb shepherd

Usage note

The verb 'to shepherd' means to guide or look after a group, often in a protective or leading capacity. It is commonly used metaphorically for managing people or projects.

Example sentences

  1. The shepherd watched over his sheep as they grazed in the field.
  2. The shepherd uses a herding dog to help him round up the sheep.
  3. The shepherd carried a staff to guide the sheep.
  4. The shepherd woke up early to tend to the sheep.
  5. The shepherd counted his sheep before putting them in the pen.

Quotes

  • The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. - Psalm 23:1
  • I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. - John 10:11
  • A shepherd may be a very able, trusty, and good servant; yet if he set his dog upon a sheep, he cannot be a good neighbour. - John Bunyan

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