How Do You Spell SHEEPFOLD?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈiːpfə͡ʊld] (IPA)

The word "sheepfold" refers to a pen or enclosure used for housing sheep. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ʃiːpfəʊld/. The first syllable is pronounced as "sheep", i.e., /ʃiːp/ with a long "i" sound. The second syllable begins with the consonant "f", which is followed by the vowel "o" pronounced as /əʊ/ with a diphthong sound. Then, the syllable ends with the consonant "l" and "d", which are pronounced separately. The word's spelling follows the usual English pattern, with "ee" representing the long vowel sound and "o" representing the short vowel sound.

SHEEPFOLD Meaning and Definition

1. A sheepfold is a noun that refers to an enclosure or pen specifically designed for housing and safeguarding sheep. It is a specialized structure typically made of sturdy fencing or walls, often constructed with wood, stone, or wire, depending on the available materials in a particular region or era. Sheepfolds are an integral part of sheep husbandry and have been used since ancient times.

   The primary purpose of a sheepfold is to protect sheep from potential dangers, such as predatory animals, thieves, or harsh weather conditions. By confining sheep within the enclosure, shepherds can ensure the safety and security of their flock. The design and size of a sheepfold vary, depending on the number of sheep it needs to accommodate as well as the topography of the surrounding area.

   Traditionally, sheepfolds were often built in or around pastures and grazing lands to provide a centralized location for gathering and sheltering the sheep. Some sheepfolds are simple structures, while others may include additional features such as a roof or a gate to allow shepherds to control access. Sheepfolds can be a temporary setup, easily dismantled and moved to different locations, or they can be permanent fixtures in agricultural landscapes.

   In conclusion, a sheepfold is an enclosure purposefully constructed for the containment and protection of sheep, allowing shepherds to manage their flocks effectively while minimizing the risk of various threats.

2. A place where sheep are confined.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SHEEPFOLD

• aheepfold
• zheepfold
• xheepfold
• dheepfold
• eheepfold
• wheepfold
• sgeepfold
• sbeepfold
• sneepfold
• sjeepfold
• sheepfole
• Sheepfeald
• Sheeppfald
• Shepfild
• Sheppfold

Etymology of SHEEPFOLD

The word "sheepfold" originates from Old English, specifically from the combination of two words: "sceap", meaning "sheep", and "fald", meaning "fold" or "enclosure". Together, "sceapfald" referred to a shelter or enclosure for sheep. Over time, the word evolved into the modern term "sheepfold", which still carries the same basic meaning of a structure or area used to house and protect sheep.

Similar spelling word for SHEEPFOLD

• sheffield.

Plural form of SHEEPFOLD is SHEEPFOLDS