bellwether

American  

[bel-weth-er] / ˈbɛlˌwɛð ər /

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.

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bellwether British  

/ ˈbɛlˌwɛðə /

noun

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

2. a leader, esp one followed unquestioningly

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Etymology

Origin of bellwether

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

Example Sentences

Shares in the group—regarded as a bellwether for U.K. retail—rose more than 5% despite the group warning that the Iran war could affect costs, prices and consumer demand.

From The Wall Street Journal

The first bellwether there is set to begin in Oakland this summer.

From Los Angeles Times

But they are not off the hook yet, as they will be defendants in several upcoming bellwether trials.

From BBC

Nick Lichtenberg has used the technology to crank out 600 stories since rejoining Fortune in July, a potential bellwether for where much of the media business is headed.

From The Wall Street Journal

The 42-year-old, who has penned more than 600 stories since rejoining Fortune in July, may be a bellwether for where much of the media business is headed.

From The Wall Street Journal