Definition

Adjective: - Resembling a sheep in behavior: Exhibiting qualities stereotypically associated with sheep, such as docility, meekness, timidity, or a lack of independent thought or initiative. - Suggestive of unthinking conformity: Behaving in a passive, unquestioning, or easily led manner, often within a group.

Usage

The adjective "sheeplike" is used to describe a person's behavior or a group's collective action. It is almost always used in a negative or critical sense to imply a lack of individuality, courage, or critical thinking. It modifies a noun directly or follows a linking verb.

Examples

• The protesters followed the leader in a sheeplike manner, without asking any questions about their destination.
• He criticized the sheeplike obedience of the employees to every new, poorly conceived policy.
• The crowd moved with a sheeplike uniformity, everyone buying the same product because others were doing it.
• Their acceptance of the flawed argument was sadly sheeplike.

Advanced Usage

• Used in social and political commentary: The term is frequently employed in critiques of mass behavior, consumerism, or political compliance.
  • The commentator warned against sheeplike adherence to party dogma without personal scrutiny.

Variants and Related Words

• Sheeple (noun, informal, often derogatory): A portmanteau of "sheep" and "people," referring to people who are docile, compliant, or easily manipulated.
  • The conspiracy theorist claimed the media was controlling the sheeple.

Synonyms

• Docile: Ready to accept control or instruction; submissive.
• Meek: Quiet, gentle, and easily imposed on; submissive.
• Submissive: Meekly obedient or passive.
• Compliant: Inclined to agree with others or obey rules readily.
• Conformist: A person who conforms to accepted behavior or established practices. (Note: This is typically a noun, but the behavior can be described as conformist.)

Antonyms

• Independent: Free from outside control; not depending on another's authority.
• Assertive: Having or showing a confident and forceful personality.
• Strong-willed: Determined to do as one wants even if other people advise against it.
• Rebellious: Showing a desire to resist authority, control, or convention.

Adjective

1. like or suggestive of a sheep in docility or stupidity or meekness or timidity