Meaning & Definition of word "Shepherd"

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    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.