Shepherd
/ˈʃɛp.ərd/noun
A person who tends and herds sheep.
Did you know?The term 'shepherd' is linked to ancient rituals where guardianship over livestock symbolized spiritual protection over the soul.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*skep-
“to cover or protect, reflecting a sense of guardianship.”
Old English
Old English
sceaphierde
“sheep herder, literally 'sheep guardian'.”
Middle English
Middle English
shepherdes
“a person who tends sheep, emphasizing the role of care and guidance.”
Modern English
English
shepherd
“a herder of sheep, with connotations of protection and leadership.”