What is ewe? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of ewe

ewenoun

cừu cái

/juː//juː/

Where does the word ewe come from?

The word "ewe" has its roots in Old English, where it was spelled as "ǣge" or "ēge." This Old English word is believed to have originated from the proto-Germanic *āgjaz, which means "milk-giving." The prefix "ē-" in Old English served to emphasize the words' femininity, which added to the existing base word in making the noun specifically feminine. As sheep were commonly raised for their milk, the term "ewe" was originally applied to female sheep capable of nursing lambs, which is why it is etymologically linked to the words for "milk" in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German "āgo" and Middle Low German "ēve." The English word "ewe" underwent some spelling changes over the centuries, evolving into "ēwe" in Middle English before arriving at its current form in Modern English. Today, "ewe" is not just used to refer to a female sheep, but also to its lamb, particularly when the lamb is only a few days old. This usage, however, varies from region to region and is not universally accepted. In conclusion, the English word "ewe" derives from the Old English word "ǣge" or "ēge," which in turn originated from the proto-Germanic *āgjaz, meaning "milk-giving." Its feminine form in Old English was created by adding the prefix "ē-" to emphasize the words' femininity. Over time, the word's spelling and usage have evolved but its original meaning, denoting a female sheep capable of nursing lambs, continues to be relevant today.

Vocabulary summary ewe

typenoun

meaning(zoology) ewe

meaningmy most precious thing

Example of vocabulary ewenamespace

  • The shepherd counted his flock and found that one of the ewes was missing.
  • The farmer led the ewes through the pasture, watching carefully to make sure none of them wandered off.
  • The ewes followed the sheepdog obediently, grazing contentedly as they went.
  • The shepherd brought his ewes to a nearby stream to drink, watching carefully for any signs of danger.
  • The ewes huddled together in the steep mountainside, seeking shelter from the storm that was rolling in.

Comment ()