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Sheep Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sheep

[ʃiːp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

animal

A domesticated ruminant animal with a thick woolly coat and typically kept for its meat or wool.

Synonyms

ewe, lamb, mutton, ram.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sheep

General term for the animal, often used in farming or nature contexts.

  • The farmer has 50 sheep in his fields.
  • Sheep are known for their wool.
ram

A male sheep, usually referred to in contexts involving breeding or describing male characteristics.

  • The ram has impressive horns.
  • Rams are often more aggressive than ewes.
ewe

Specifically refers to a female sheep, usually in discussions about breeding or farming.

  • The ewe gave birth to two healthy lambs.
  • The farmer separated the ewes from the rams.
lamb

A young sheep, often mentioned in the context of age or tenderness of meat.

  • The children loved to see the newborn lambs.
  • Lamb is a popular dish for Easter dinner.
mutton

Refers to the meat of an adult sheep, typically used in culinary contexts.

  • Mutton stew is a traditional dish in many cultures.
  • He bought mutton from the butcher for the barbecue.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer has a flock of sheep grazing in the field.
  • Sheep are commonly found in rural areas.
  • The sheep were sheared to collect their wool.
  • The shepherd counted the sheep to make sure none were missing.
  • The sheep huddled together to stay warm.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Ancient humans began domesticating these animals around 10,000 years ago, making them one of the first farm animals.
  • The earliest evidence of sheep farming is found in Mesopotamia, which is now part of modern-day Iraq.
  • In many cultures, sheep were considered symbols of wealth and prosperity due to their valuable wool and meat.

Cultural Significance

  • In Christianity, sheep are often associated with innocence and sacrifice, as seen in the story of the 'Good Shepherd'.
  • The expression 'black sheep' refers to someone who is different from the rest of a group, often implying they are the odd one out.
  • Folklore around the world includes stories about sheep, like the tale of the lost sheep, emphasizing themes of care and guidance.

Science

  • Sheep have a unique digestive system with a four-chambered stomach that helps them break down tough plant materials.
  • The species is known for its intelligence; studies show they can recognize human faces and remember them for years.
  • These animals are social creatures and thrive in groups, relying on their flock for safety and companionship.

Economics

  • The wool industry plays a significant role in textiles, with millions of sheep being raised worldwide for their fleece.
  • In various countries, sheep farming is a critical source of income for rural communities, providing food and materials.
  • The meat from sheep, known as lamb or mutton, is a staple in many culinary traditions around the globe.

Pop Culture

  • Famous nursery rhymes like 'Baa Baa Black Sheep' have made these animals beloved characters in children's literature.
  • In animated films and series, sheep are often portrayed as comical and naive, capitalizing on their fluffy appearance.
  • The portrayal of sheep in art dates back to ancient civilizations and continues to be a popular theme, symbolizing peace and pastoral life.

Origin of 'sheep'

The word 'sheep' has Old English origins, with roots in Germanic languages. Sheep have been domesticated for thousands of years, with evidence of their importance in various ancient civilizations. They have played a significant role in agriculture, providing meat, wool, and milk. Sheep are known for their herding behavior and are symbolic in many cultures for traits like docility and meekness.

See also: sheepdog, sheepishly.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,792, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.