Sheepishly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sheepishly
sheep-ish-ly
Definitions
used to describe someone's behavior
In a sheepish manner, showing embarrassment or a lack of confidence.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sheepishly |
Use this word when someone is feeling embarrassed or guilty about something they've done. This often involves a mix of shyness and self-consciousness.
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| shyly |
This word is best used when someone is feeling self-conscious or lacking in confidence, especially when interacting with others.
|
| timidly |
This word describes someone who is feeling fearful, hesitant, or lacking in courage. It implies a stronger sense of fear or reluctance compared to 'shyly'.
|
| nervously |
This word suits situations when someone feels anxious, worried, or uneasy. It often describes someone who is fidgety or on edge.
|
Examples of usage
- He sheepishly admitted that he had forgotten about the meeting.
- Sheepishly, she returned the wallet she had found.
describing a person's expression
Showing embarrassment or a lack of confidence in one's expression or demeanor.
Synonyms
embarrassed, guilty, shy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sheepishly |
When someone feels awkward or embarrassed about something they did, especially if it was a mistake or socially awkward action. This word has a sense of shyness and subtle regret.
|
| embarrassed |
When someone feels self-conscious, uncomfortable, or awkward in a social situation, often due to an unwanted attention or a social mistake.
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| shy |
When someone is naturally reserved, timid, or hesitant in social situations, often feeling discomfort or nervousness around others.
|
| guilty |
When someone feels responsible for a wrongdoing or a mistake, often with a deep sense of regret. This word has a heavier, more negative connotation compared to 'sheepishly'.
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Examples of usage
- He gave a sheepish grin when caught eating the last piece of cake.
- Sheepish looks were exchanged between the students who failed to complete the assignment.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Quick facts about “sheepishly”
Sheepishly is a 3-syllable adverb and adjective (sheep-ish-ly). It is pronounced /ˈʃipɪʃɫi/ in American English and /ʃˈiːpɪʃli/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 2 meanings, 6 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #25,671 among the most common English words.
Origin of 'sheepishly'
The word 'sheepishly' originated from the Middle English word 'shepissly', which was derived from the Old English word 'sceaplic', meaning 'like a sheep'. It is believed to have evolved from the idea that sheep are meek and easily embarrassed animals. Over time, the term 'sheepishly' has come to describe behavior or expressions that convey a sense of embarrassment or timidity.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #25,671, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
- ...
- 25668 uselessness
- 25669 unmeasured
- 25670 epiphany
- 25671 sheepishly
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- 25673 coolie
- 25674 fervid
- ...