Meaning & Definition of word "Shepherd"
to
Shepherd
/ˈʃɛpərd/
noun:
- 1. A person who herds and tends sheep.
- Example: The shepherd guided the flock through the green pastures.
- 2. A person who protects or guides others, especially in a spiritual or pastoral sense.
- Example: The pastor saw himself as a shepherd to his congregation.
verb:
- 1. To guide or direct (a group of people or animals), especially in a protective or nurturing manner.
- Example: Shepherd the children safely across the busy street.
- 2. To lead or direct an initiative or project.
- Example: He was appointed to shepherd the new policy through the legislative process.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old English 'sceaphierde', from 'sceap' (sheep) + 'hierde' (herder).
Common Phrases and Expressions
shepherd's pie:
A meat pie made with a crust and filled with ground or minced meat and vegetables.
good shepherd:
A term often used in Christianity to describe Jesus as a protector and guide.
shepherd the flock:
To guide and take care of a group of people or followers.
Related Words
pasture:
Land covered with grass suitable for grazing animals.
herding:
The act of moving and managing a group of animals.
flock:
A group of sheep or birds.
Slang Meanings of shepherd
Meaning: To shepherd someone means to guide or lead them carefully.
Example Sentence: The teacher shepherded her students through the difficult project.
Meaning: In a metaphorical sense, to shepherd ideas is to nurture and develop them.
Example Sentence: He had the vision to shepherd the project from conception to completion.