shepherd
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈʃɛp.ərd/
KK: /ˈʃɛpərd/
noun
Definition
A person who takes care of sheep and guides them, often in a rural setting.
Example
The shepherd led the flock of sheep to a new pasture.
Conversation
Did you see that movie about the shepherd?
No, I haven't heard of it. What's it about?
It's about a man who takes care of his flock and faces many challenges.
Sounds interesting! I love stories about perseverance.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
herder
guardian
pastor
Antonyms
follower
neglecter
abandoner
transitive verb
Definition
To guide or take care of a group of animals, especially sheep, similar to how a shepherd does.
Example
The farmer shepherded the flock to a new pasture.
Tense Forms
Past: shepherded
Past Participle: shepherded
Conversation
Have you ever seen someone shepherd a group of kids on a field trip?
Yeah, it’s impressive how they keep everyone together and safe.
I wonder if I could shepherd my little cousins at the park someday.
Root Explanation
**Shepherd** → The word 'shepherd' comes from Old English 'sceaphierde', which is formed from 'sceap' (meaning sheep) and 'hierde' (meaning herder or guardian). A shepherd is thus someone who guards or herds sheep.
Memory Tip
Think of a person who 'guards' ('hierde') 'sheep' ('sceap') — that's why a shepherd is someone who takes care of sheep.
Visually Confused Words
sheepherder
sheepshed
sheephead
unshepherded
sheered
sheepherding
sheephearted
overshepherd