Sheepfold: meaning, definitions and examples

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sheepfold

 

[ ˈʃiːpfoʊld ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

animal shelter

A sheepfold is an enclosed area or structure designed for the shelter and protection of sheep. It typically consists of fences or walls to keep the sheep contained and safe from predators. These structures have been used for centuries in pastoral farming to ensure the well-being of livestock.

Synonyms

corral, enclosure, pen

Examples of usage

  • The farmer led the sheep to the sheepfold before the storm.
  • After grazing all day, the sheep returned to the safety of the sheepfold.
  • The old sheepfold was made of wooden posts and wire fencing.

Translations

Translations of the word "sheepfold" in other languages:

🇵🇹 curral de ovelhas

🇮🇳 भेड़ का बाड़ा

🇩🇪 Schafstall

🇮🇩 kandang domba

🇺🇦 овечий загін

🇵🇱 zagroda owiec

🇯🇵 羊小屋

🇫🇷 enclos à moutons

🇪🇸 corrales de ovejas

🇹🇷 koyun ahırı

🇰🇷 양우리

🇸🇦 حظيرة الأغنام

🇨🇿 ovčí stáj

🇸🇰 ovčia stajňa

🇨🇳 羊圈

🇸🇮 ovčji hlev

🇮🇸 fénaheim

🇰🇿 қой қорасы

🇬🇪 ცხვრის მწყემსი

🇦🇿 qoç tövləsi

🇲🇽 corral de ovejas

Word origin

The term 'sheepfold' dates back to Old English, with its roots in the words 'sceap' meaning sheep and 'fald' referring to a fold or enclosure. It reflects a long-standing tradition in agriculture where pastoralists would create enclosed areas to protect sheep from natural predators and harsh weather conditions. Historical records show that sheepfolds were commonly used in ancient societies, particularly in regions where sheep farming was prevalent. Over time, the design and materials used in sheepfold construction have evolved, but the primary purpose remains the same: to provide a safe haven for sheep. By the Middle Ages, the term had become widely adopted in English-speaking cultures, illustrating the importance of sheep in agrarian economies and the need for effective livestock management.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,152, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.