sheepdog — a dog trained to help control and guide sheep, or a breed of dog originally bred for this purpose
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a dog trained to help control and guide sheep, or a breed of dog originally bred for this purpose
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈʃiːpˌdɔːg/
Example Sentences
- My sheepdog is so smart, I think he's smarter than my little brother.
- The farmer whistled once, and the sheepdog instantly began herding the sheep toward the barn.
- Border Collies are considered one of the most intelligent sheepdog breeds in the world.
sheepdog
NOUN[/ˈʃiːpˌdɔːg/]
a dog trained to help control and guide sheep, or a breed of dog originally bred for this purpose
A loyal sheepdog circles the flock, keeping every sheep safely together on the hillside.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Sheepdog is a compound noun formed from Old English 'sheep' (the domesticated woolly mammal) and 'dog' (a canine animal). The term emerged in medieval England as sheep herding became a central agricultural practice, requiring specially trained dogs to manage and protect livestock flocks.
Breakdown
sheep (Old English sceap, the woolly domesticated animal) + dog (Old English docga, a canine). The compound directly describes the dog's primary function: guarding and herding sheep.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My sheepdog is so smart, I think he's smarter than my little brother.”
“The farmer whistled once, and the sheepdog instantly began herding the sheep toward the barn.”
“Border Collies are considered one of the most intelligent sheepdog breeds in the world.”
“Even without training, my dog tries to be a sheepdog by herding the kids at every birthday party.”
📚Related Words
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