sheepish
SHEEP-ish
/ˈʃiːpɪʃ/
Showing embarrassment or shame from knowing that one has done something foolish or wrong.
Captures a mild, timid, and slightly awkward embarrassment, often accompanied by a hesitant smile.
The story behind the word. Sheepish originated in Middle English around the 12th century, literally meaning 'resembling a sheep'. Because sheep were seen as meek, easily led, and foolishly helpless, the word evolved to describe someone looking meekly embarrassed after making a mistake.
Word relationships
- chagrin-faced: Chagrin-faced emphasizes annoyance at oneself, while sheepish emphasizes meek, timid self-consciousness.
- bold: Bold implies fearless confidence without hesitation.
Commonly confused with
- peevish: Peevish means irritable and easily annoyed, whereas sheepish means timidly embarrassed.
Word family
- sheepishly (adverb): in an embarrassed or bashful manner
- sheepishness (noun): embarrassment or meekness
Collocations
- sheepish grin
- sheepish smile
- look sheepish
Example sentences
- "He gave a sheepish grin after arriving an hour late to the dinner party." Everyday blunder
Memory hook
Like a helpless SHEEP caught eating flowers in the wrong yard, looking meek and embarrassed. Timid, meek embarrassment with a awkward smile.
When not to use
Avoid for grave, tragic, or criminal admissions where solemnity is needed.
Fun facts
- In the 1500s, 'sheepish' could also mean stupid or slow-witted, before narrowing specifically to awkward embarrassment.
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