plural sheep
often attributive
1
: any of various hollow-horned typically gregarious ruminant mammals (genus Ovis) related to the goats but stockier and lacking a beard in the male
specifically
: one (O. aries) long domesticated especially for its flesh and wool
2
a
: a timid defenseless creature
b
: a timid docile person
especially
: one easily influenced or led
3
: leather prepared from the skins of sheep : sheepskin
Examples of sheep in a Sentence
he came to see that the members of the cult were sheep who naively went along with whatever their leader dictated
Recent Examples on the Web
He's expanded his livestock business to sheep and chickens.
—
Fatma Tanis, NPR, 13 Dec. 2025
Authorities found a total of 229 animals – many being sheep but also goats, dogs, horses, pigs, calves, a donkey, a cat, a pony, and a rabbit – had been housed at the property.
—Cecilio Padilla, CBS News, 12 Dec. 2025
These popular Ugg slippers could be a real treat for a loved one; they’re covered in high-quality suede and lined with plush and toasty sheep’s fur.
—Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 12 Dec. 2025
The little cotton ball sheep are so fun and the colors punch you in the face.
—Emily Temple, Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sheep
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Fatma Tanis, NPR, 13 Dec. 2025
Authorities found a total of 229 animals – many being sheep but also goats, dogs, horses, pigs, calves, a donkey, a cat, a pony, and a rabbit – had been housed at the property.
—Cecilio Padilla, CBS News, 12 Dec. 2025
These popular Ugg slippers could be a real treat for a loved one; they’re covered in high-quality suede and lined with plush and toasty sheep’s fur.
—Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 12 Dec. 2025
The little cotton ball sheep are so fun and the colors punch you in the face.
—Emily Temple, Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sheep
Cite this Entry
“Sheep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sheep. Accessed 21 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
sheep
noun
plural sheep
1
: any of various cud-chewing mammals that are stockier than the related goats and lack a beard in the male
especially
: one raised for its wool, skin, or flesh
2
: a weak helpless person who is easily led
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