Meaning & Definition of word "Shepherd"

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.