How Do You Spell SHEEPISHNESS?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈiːpɪʃnəs] (IPA)

"Sheepishness" is spelled with three syllables and four distinct phonemes. The first syllable is pronounced as "sh" (ʃ), the second syllable as "ee" (i), the third syllable as "p" (p), and the final syllable as "ishness" (ɪʃnɪs), with the emphasis on the second syllable. The word describes a feeling of embarrassment or awkwardness, often due to guilt or shame. Its spelling reflects the unusual combination of the "sh" consonant with the "ee" vowel sound, making it a unique and memorable word.

SHEEPISHNESS Meaning and Definition

1. Sheepishness is a noun that refers to the quality or state of feeling embarrassed, awkward, or ashamed, often due to a sense of self-consciousness or foolishness. It embodies a demeanor of timidity, showing signs of being hesitant, bashful, or shy. It typically manifests through lowered eyes, a downward gaze, or a blush on the face, conveying an aspect of meekness or unease. The term "sheepishness" draws its metaphorical origins from the behavior of sheep, which are known to exhibit similar characteristics when they feel exposed or unsure.

   Sheepishness often arises in situations when a person becomes aware of their mistakes, deficiencies, or shortcomings and becomes embarrassed by them. It can be a result of silly or foolish actions, such as making a comical blunder, divulging a personal secret, or being caught in an embarrassing situation. It is characterized by a demure and hesitant response, as the individual may display body language or verbal cues that indicate discomfort.

   Sheepishness can also relate to feeling awkward or self-conscious in social interactions. It may arise when an individual believes their behavior or comments were ill-advised, leading to a sense of discomfort or embarrassment. Sheepishness can be temporary, as people usually regain their composure and confidence after the awkward moment passes. However, it can also become habitual for individuals who tend to be more introverted or shy, often leading to a perceived lack of assertiveness or self-assurance.

2. The quality of being sheepish; excessive modesty or diffidence.

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

Common Misspellings for SHEEPISHNESS

• aheepishness
• zheepishness
• xheepishness
• dheepishness
• eheepishness
• wheepishness
• sgeepishness
• sbeepishness
• sneepishness
• sjeepishness
• sueepishness
• syeepishness
• shwepishness
• shsepishness
• shdepishness
• shrepishness
• sh4epishness
• sh3epishness
• shewpishness
• sheepishneses
• shepishness
• shreuishness
• sheepsishness
• sheepishnedd
• sheepsishnes
• sheepsishnesse
• sheepsishnedd
• shepsishness
• snepishness
• sheepisheness
• sheepishiess

Etymology of SHEEPISHNESS

The word "sheepishness" is derived from the noun "sheep" and the adjective "sheepish". The term "sheepish" originated in the 16th century and came from the Old English word "sceap", which means "sheep". It refers to someone who resembles or has characteristics associated with a sheep. The suffix "-ish" denotes a quality or condition of something, so "sheepish" describes a behavior or appearance reminiscent of a sheep.

Similar spelling words for SHEEPISHNESS

• sheepshank,
• sheepskin.

Plural form of SHEEPISHNESS is SHEEPISHNESSES