sheeple

American  

[shee-puhl] / ˈʃi pəl /

plural noun

1. people who are like sheep in being meek, conforming, or easily led.

   Maintaining fear, division, and hate is a priority—sheeple are easier to herd when frightened.

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sheeple British  

/ ˈʃiːpəl /

noun

1. informal people who tend to follow the majority in matters of opinion, taste, etc

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Etymology

Origin of sheeple

First recorded in 1945–50; sheep ( def. ) + (peop)le ( def. )

Explanation

The word sheeple is a pretty mean-spirited term. It's used by some critics to describe people whom they perceive as behaving in an overly meek and docile manner. The word sheeple is a portmanteau of sheep and people. In general, sheep are thought of as being quite docile and easy to herd. They follow a shepherd, and they stick together, traveling the same path as the other sheep. The term sheeple emerged in the 20th century as a negative critique of mass consumerism and political conformity. Because it compares humans to livestock, especially in a way that suggests being overly simple, unquestioning, and conformist, it is considered an offensive term.

Example Sentences

Rather, Fear the Walking Dead emanates the sickening but sticky vibe of tragedy: Sheeple!

From Slate • Aug. 19, 2015