sheepish

[ shee-pish ]

adjective

1. embarrassed or bashful, as by having done something wrong or foolish.
2. like sheep, as in meekness, docility, etc.

sheepish

/ ˈʃiːpɪʃ /

adjective

1. abashed or embarrassed, esp through looking foolish or being in the wrong
2. resembling a sheep in timidity or lack of initiative

Derived Forms

• ˈsheepishness, noun
• ˈsheepishly, adverb

Other Words From

• sheep·ish·ly adverb
• sheep·ish·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sheepish¹

First recorded in 1150–1200, sheepish is from the Middle English word shepisshe; sheep, -ish ¹

Example Sentences

The clumsy, shy 10-year-old is one of the most endearing characters in Springfield, thanks in part to his halting, sheepish voice and his stubborn resilience.

From New York Times

As sheepish as Banda felt about the incident, he wanted to make an important clarification.

From Los Angeles Times

Seven years later, though, Dubois has transformed from a sheepish, sometimes voiceless, character to a fighter demanding respect.

From BBC

"So I went and I said: 'Hello, I’d like my notes back, please,' and they were a bit sheepish about it," he said.

From BBC

Brenda began as a sheepish character, but she was determined to fit in the moment she set foot in West Beverly High.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• diffident
• foolish
• self-conscious
• timid
• uncomfortable