SHEPHERDESS Meaning and
Definition
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A shepherdess, noun, refers to a female shepherd or a woman who tends to and looks after a flock of sheep. Derived from the Middle English word "shepardesse," the term carries historical connotations and has traditionally been used to describe women who engage in the occupation of shepherding.
In rural and agricultural communities, a shepherdess assumes the crucial responsibility of guiding, protecting, and caring for a flock of sheep. This occupation requires extensive knowledge and skills, such as herding techniques, animal behavior understanding, and the ability to recognize signs of distress or illness in the flock. A shepherdess often takes charge of leading the sheep to grazing areas, monitoring their health, ensuring their safety from potential dangers like predators or adverse weather conditions, and managing their overall well-being.
As an emblematic figure within literature and art, a shepherdess represents a pastoral ideal of simplicity, innocence, and serene beauty. Frequently depicted as a young woman wearing a rustic dress, often accompanied by a crook or staff, she symbolizes the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, exemplifying a tranquil and idyllic rural life.
Although the role of a shepherdess has evolved over time due to advancements in agriculture and shifting societal dynamics, the term retains its historic and cultural significance by evoking images of a dedicated woman wor
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A female who attends sheep while pasturing; shepherd's crook or staff, a rod or staff armed with a blunt iron hook.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SHEPHERDESS
Etymology of SHEPHERDESS
The word "shepherdess" derives from the Middle English term "shepherdesse", which originated in the 14th century. It is a compound word formed by combining the word "shepherd" with the French suffix "-esse".
The Old English word "sceaphierde" was the base for "shepherd", which referred to a person who tends to and takes care of sheep. The suffix "-esse" comes from Old French and was generally used to form feminine nouns. It implies the female variant of a male role or occupation, thus indicating a female shepherd.
Over time, "shepherdess" gained popularity and became the established term for a female shepherd.
Similar spelling words for SHEPHERDESS
- shipyard,
- shoebird,
- shepherd,
- shepheard,
- Shephard,
- shepherd's pie,
- Shepardson,
- Shepperd,
- Sheppard,
- shepherd dog,
- sheepherder.
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