sheep-hook

A shepherd uses a sheep-hook to guide his flock.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A shepherd's crook: "sheep-hook" refers to a long staff with a hooked end, traditionally used by shepherds to catch and manage sheep by the neck or leg.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The shepherd carried a sturdy sheep-hook to guide the flock through the narrow gate. (A hooked staff used for managing sheep.)
  • In the painting, the old man leans on his sheep-hook while watching the grazing animals. (A traditional shepherd's tool.)

Advanced Usage

• "to use a sheep-hook": to employ the tool for catching or directing sheep.

  • The farmer used a sheep-hook to gently pull a stray lamb back to the herd. (To employ the hooked staff for herding.)

• "sheep-hook as a symbol": in literature or art, the sheep-hook can represent pastoral life, care, or authority over a flock.

  • The bishop's staff resembles a sheep-hook, symbolizing his role as a spiritual shepherd. (A metaphorical use of the tool's shape and function.)

Variants and Related Words

• Shepherd's crook (n): another term for a sheep-hook.

  • The shepherd's crook is often carved with ornate designs. (A synonym for sheep-hook.)

• Crook (n): the hooked end of a shepherd's staff; also used as a general term for a curved tool.

  • The crook of the sheep-hook is shaped to fit around a sheep's neck. (The curved part of the tool.)

Synonyms

• Shepherd's staff: a long stick used by shepherds, often with a hook.
• Herding hook: a tool for guiding livestock.

Related Idioms

• "Crook of the shepherd": a phrase evoking the protective and guiding role of a shepherd.
  • Under the crook of the shepherd, the flock is safe. (Under the protection and guidance of the shepherd.)

Phrasal Verbs

• Hook with a sheep-hook: to catch or pull using the tool.
  • He hooked the lamb with his sheep-hook and brought it back to the pen. (To catch using the hooked staff.)