bell cow

American  

noun

1. a cow, especially the lead cow of a herd, having a bell attached to a collar around its neck so that the herd can be located easily.

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Etymology

Origin of bell cow

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60

Example Sentences

Gibson, last year’s bell cow, is still big for a running back at 6 feet, but he doesn’t run with the same sort of bulldozer style that Robinson is known for.

From Washington Times • Oct. 24, 2022

Smith has been Baylor’s bell cow, and he is a reflection of Aranda’s ability to take a roster that isn’t loaded with four- and five-star players and get the pieces in the right places.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 31, 2021

Coach Ryan Day may have found a bell cow after splitting carries among Henderson and a couple others in the first two games.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 18, 2021

The offensive line was better, and coach Ryan Day may have found a bell cow after splitting carries among Henderson and a couple others in the first two games.

From Fox News • Sep. 18, 2021

That was the bell cow, whom, of course, none of the other cows dared to disturb.

From Lisbeth Longfrock by Poulsson, Laura E. (Laura Elizabeth)