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Shepherd Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shepherd

[ˈʃɛpərd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

farm animal

A shepherd is a person who takes care of sheep, especially on a farm. Shepherds are responsible for feeding, watering, and protecting the sheep from predators.

Synonyms

herder, pastoralist, rancher.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shepherd

This term is most commonly used to describe a person who tends, herds, and guards sheep, typically in a rural or pastoral setting. It's also used metaphorically to describe someone who guides or leads a group.

  • The shepherd led the flock to greener pastures.
  • In the story, the shepherd watched over his community with great care.
herder

This is a more general term that applies to anyone who manages and drives livestock, which can include sheep, cattle, goats, etc. The context can be rural, traditional, or nomadic.

  • The herder moved the cattle to a new grazing area.
  • In Mongolia, many families work as herders, taking care of horses and sheep.
rancher

This term is commonly used in the context of large-scale livestock farming, particularly in the United States and other Western countries. It suggests a more commercial and modern approach to animal husbandry.

  • The rancher owns a large estate where he raises cattle and horses.
  • Ranchers in Texas play a significant role in the beef industry.
pastoralist

This term is used in a more anthropological or sociological context, referring to people engaged in a traditional way of life centered around livestock-raising. It often conveys a sense of cultural practices and lifestyles.

  • Pastoralists in the region have maintained their traditions for centuries.
  • Climate change has significantly affected the livelihood of pastoralists.

Examples of usage

  • The shepherd led the flock of sheep to the pasture.
  • The shepherd used his sheepdog to help gather the scattered sheep.
Context #2 | Noun

religious leader

In some religious traditions, a shepherd is a spiritual leader who guides and cares for a group of people, like a pastor or priest.

Synonyms

clergyman, pastor, preacher.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shepherd

Used to refer to someone who herds and takes care of sheep, but metaphorically can refer to someone guiding or leading people, especially in a spiritual context.

  • The shepherd led his flock across the hills
  • He was seen as the shepherd of his community, guiding them through difficult times
pastor

Used primarily in Christian contexts to refer to a church leader or minister responsible for the spiritual care of a congregation.

  • The pastor greeted everyone warmly after the service
  • She asked her pastor for advice on a personal matter
clergyman

Refers to a male member of the clergy, usually in a formal or official context related to religious duties.

  • The clergyman delivered a heartfelt sermon
  • He consulted the clergyman for spiritual guidance
preacher

Refers to someone who speaks publicly about religious topics, often with an emphasis on delivering sermons or religious messages. Can sometimes have a negative connotation if seen as overzealous or moralizing.

  • The preacher captivated the audience with his passionate speech
  • Some felt the preacher's message was too aggressive

Examples of usage

  • The minister saw his role as a shepherd of the congregation.
  • The shepherd of the church provided comfort and guidance to the members.
Context #3 | Verb

to guide or direct

To shepherd means to guide or direct a group of people or things in a particular direction or towards a specific goal.

Synonyms

direct, guide, lead.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shepherd

Although already described above, this word can also be used in contexts where someone is watching over others with care.

  • The experienced pediatrician shepherded the parents through the vaccination process.
  • The community leader shepherded the residents during the crisis.
guide

Choose 'guide' when emphasizing the act of leading someone by giving advice or showing the way, often with a sense of helping or facilitating.

  • The mentor guided the intern through the company's policies.
  • She guided the tourists around the city landmarks.
lead

This word is useful when talking about being in charge or at the front of a group, often implying inspiration or direction.

  • He was chosen to lead the new project team.
  • She leads the choir with great enthusiasm.
direct

Use 'direct' when referring to giving specific instructions or managing how something is done. It often involves a sense of authority or control.

  • She directed the team to complete the project by Friday.
  • The traffic officer directed cars around the accident site.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher shepherded the students through the museum exhibit.
  • The project manager shepherded the team towards the completion of the project.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, shepherds symbolize care and responsibility, representing the idea of guiding and protecting others.
  • The nativity story in Christianity includes a shepherd who was among the first to visit baby Jesus, highlighting their humble and caring nature.
  • In art, shepherds are often depicted as figures of peace and connection with nature, reflecting a simpler life.

Literature

  • Shepherds appear in works like 'The Canterbury Tales,' symbolizing the virtues of diligence and care.
  • The biblical figure David was a shepherd before he became king, showcasing themes of leadership and protection in literature.
  • In poetry, shepherds often represent innocence and pastoral beauty, evoking a sense of nostalgia.

Historical Context

  • In ancient times, shepherds played a crucial role in communities as the primary caretakers of livestock, ensuring survival for many families.
  • The lifestyle of shepherds often involved seasonal migrations to find fresh pastures, leading to unique cultural practices and traditions.
  • The profession of shepherding has significantly influenced rural economies, particularly in Mediterranean regions famed for sheep farming.

Modern Usage

  • Today, the term 'shepherd' is sometimes metaphorically used to describe leaders or mentors guiding others.
  • In technology, 'shepherding' can refer to overseeing projects or teams, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
  • Shepherding is also found in wildlife conservation, where individuals work to protect and manage animal populations in their natural habitats.

Origin of 'shepherd'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from Old English 'sceaphierde,' where 'sceap' means sheep and 'hierde' means guardian.
  • In many languages, the root words for 'shepherd' hint at the connection to guarding and protection.
  • Historically, this role has been vital for agriculture, as sheep provided wool, meat, and milk.

The word 'shepherd' has its origins in Old English 'sceaphierde', which combines 'sceap' (sheep) and 'hierde' (herder). Shepherding has been a vital occupation for centuries, dating back to ancient times when nomadic societies relied on shepherds to care for their flocks. The role of a shepherd has evolved to include not only the care of sheep but also spiritual guidance and leadership in various cultures and traditions.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,980 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.