Definition

1. Noun:
   • A domesticated ruminant mammal: "domestic sheep" refers to any of the various breeds of the species Ovis aries, raised by humans primarily for their wool, meat (mutton or lamb), and skin.
   • A source of agricultural products: The term denotes the animal itself, which is a key livestock species in many cultures, valued for its economic products.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The farmer's flock of domestic sheep provides wool for the local mill.
  • This region is known for breeding domestic sheep for high-quality meat.

Advanced Usage

• In agricultural contexts: The term is used to distinguish farm-raised sheep from wild sheep species (e.g., bighorn sheep).
  • The study compared the grazing patterns of domestic sheep with those of their wild counterparts.

Variants and Related Words

• Sheep (n): The common, shorter form for "domestic sheep." While "sheep" can sometimes refer to the species broadly (including wild types), in general usage it is synonymous with "domestic sheep."
  • The sheep were sheared in the spring.
• Ovine (adj): Relating to or resembling sheep.
  • The disease affects ovine populations.
• Flock (n): A group of sheep.
  • The shepherd tended his flock.

Synonyms

• Livestock sheep: Emphasizes their role as farm animals.
• Farmed sheep: Highlights their status as cultivated animals.

Related Phrases

• Sheep farming: The practice of breeding and raising domestic sheep.
  • Sheep farming is a major industry in New Zealand.
• Sheep shearing: The process of cutting the wool off a sheep.
  • Sheep shearing requires skill and speed.

Noun

1. any of various breeds raised for wool or edible meat or skin