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Jan 31, 2024 · The phrase "the black sheep" is an idiom that describes a member of a group who is different from the rest, especially a family member who does not fit in. The term stems from sheep whose fleece is colored black rather than the more common white; these sheep stand out in the flock, and their wool is worth less as it cannot be dyed.
What does the term black sheep really mean, and where did it come from? What started as a derogatory phrase used to describe someone who doesn’t fit in has evolved over the years and has several meanings and uses today. Let’s go over its origin, true definition, and how to use the phrase in writing. Black Sheep Definition
Definitions of black sheep. noun. sheep with a black coat. see more. noun. a reckless and unprincipled reprobate. synonyms: scapegrace. see more. Cite this entry. Style: MLA. "Black sheep." Vocabulary.com Dictionary, Vocabulary.com, https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/black sheep. Accessed 17 May. 2024. Copy citation. VocabTrainer™.
Aug 8, 2023 · Family Dynamics. How to Deal With Being the Black Sheep of the Family. Firm up your boundaries and remember you're not to blame. Updated August 8, 2023|Reviewed by Abigail Fagan. Key points....
us / ˌblæk ˈʃiːp / uk / ˌblæk ˈʃiːp / Add to word list. a person who has done something bad that brings embarrassment or shame to his or her family: He's the black sheep of the family. SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases. Family: relations in general. anti-family. auntie. baby daddy. baby mama. fatherhood. filially. first cousin. kinship.
Aug 21, 2001 · The definition is pretty clear. A black sheep is a member of the group/family regarded as a disgrace, an embarrassment, a ne’er-do-well, the odd man out. The phrase arose in the late 18th century, probably from an older proverb, “There’s a black sheep in every flock.”
a person who is regarded as a disgrace or failure by his family or peer group. black sheep. A person who is considered a disgrace to a particular group, usually a family: “Uncle Jack, who was imprisoned for forgery, is the black sheep of the family.” Discover More. Word History and Origins. Origin of black sheep 1. First recorded in 1785–95.
