bellwether

[bel-weth-er]

noun

1. a wether or other male sheep that leads the flock, usually bearing a bell.

2. a person or thing that assumes the leadership or forefront, as of a profession or industry.

   Paris is a bellwether of the fashion industry.

   Synonyms: trailblazer, front runner, pacesetter, leader

3. a person or thing that shows the existence or direction of a trend; index.

4. a person who leads a mob, mutiny, conspiracy, or the like; ringleader.

bellwether

/ ˈbɛlˌwɛðə /

noun

1. a sheep that leads the herd, often bearing a bell

2. a leader, esp one followed unquestioningly

Word History and Origins

Origin of bellwether¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; bell ¹, wether

Example Sentences

The case could prove to be a bellwether for other immigration protest charges filed by Acting U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

With control of Congress at stake in 2026, both parties are closely watching Texas, Missouri and California as potential bellwethers for how far courts will allow partisan line-drawing to go.

From Salon

He said the question now is whether Nvidia's "dive into robotics" will help it sustain its role as "the bellwether of the AI economy".

From BBC

His endorsement of the meaningful housing policies, and his strategy to propel one through the state Senate, became a bellwether of his strength at the Capitol as his time in office wanes.

From Los Angeles Times

All eyes were on Cassidy as Kennedy sought Senate confirmation, because he had raised questions about the candidate’s fitness for the office and he was seen as a bellwether on the nomination.

From Los Angeles Times