shepherdess

[ shep-er-dis ]

noun

1. a girl or woman who herds sheep.
2. a rural girl.

Gender Note

See -ess.

Word History and Origins

Origin of shepherdess¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, shepherdess is from the Middle English word shepherdesse. See shepherd, -ess

Example Sentences

A little shepherdess is guiding them, as anxious to get them in as they are to enter, for this means the end of her day's work.

From Project Gutenberg

At forty years of age she still preserved almost all her freshness and could be called "the little Shepherdess of the Alps."

From Project Gutenberg

Look at Millet's "Shepherdess Spinning," at the head of this chapter, as an example of contre jour.

From Project Gutenberg

Harlequin had recruited a columbine and a shepherdess, and he introduced these ladies as partners for the promised minuet.

From Project Gutenberg

The shepherdess wants to be assured of something more substantial than mere affection before she yields to the temptation.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• herder
• herdsman