a clergyman who watches over a group of people
"The local shepherd visited each family in his parish to offer comfort and guidance during their time of grief."
a herder of sheep (on an open range); someone who keeps the sheep together in a flock
"The shepherd drove the scattered sheep back into their pen before nightfall."
A person who tends sheep, especially a grazing flock.
"The shepherd guided his flock to fresh pastures as the sun began to set."
In plain English: A shepherd is someone who takes care of sheep by guiding and protecting them while they graze.
"The shepherd watched over his flock of sheep all day long."
Usage: Use this term to describe someone responsible for guiding and protecting a flock of sheep while they graze outdoors. It is often used metaphorically in phrases like "the shepherd's crook" or when referring to leaders who guide their followers with care.
watch over like a shepherd, as a teacher of her pupils
"The dedicated mentor promised to shepherd her young charges through their final exams with patience and care."
tend as a shepherd, as of sheep or goats
"The farmer will shepherd his flock to higher ground before the night rain arrives."
To watch over; to guide.
"The experienced mentor acted as a shepherd, guiding the young interns through their first complex project."
An English occupational surname, from occupations.
"The family name Shepherd originated as an occupational title for those who tended flocks of sheep."
The word shepherd comes from the Old English combination of "sheep" and "herdsman." It originally referred specifically to someone who tended flocks, a meaning that has remained consistent in its usage.