online vocabulary.com

Sheepdog - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A sheepdog is a breed of dog trained to herd and protect sheep. These intelligent, hardworking animals assist farmers by guiding livestock and keeping them safe from harm.

sheepdog

/ˈʃipˌdɔɡ/ /ˈʃiːpˌdɒɡ/

Definition:

A dog bred or trained to herd and guard sheep.

Synonyms:

herding dog, collie, shepherd dog, border collie

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

wolf, predator

Common Collocations:

trained sheepdog, working sheepdog, loyal sheepdog, sheepdog trials

Derivatives:

sheepdogs, sheepdogging

Usage Tips:

Use "sheepdog" to refer to a dog specifically trained for herding or guarding sheep.

Common Phrases:

like a sheepdog, lone sheepdog, old sheepdog

Etymology:

Derived from Old English "scēap" (sheep) + "docga" (dog), referring to a dog that tends sheep.

Examples:

  • 1. The sheepdog guided the flock safely to the pasture.
  • 2. She trained her border collie to be an excellent sheepdog.
  • 3. The farmer relied on his loyal sheepdog daily.
  • 4. A good sheepdog can manage hundreds of sheep effortlessly.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS