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- Dictionaryblack sheep/ˈblak ˈSHēp/
noun
- 1. a member of a family or group who is regarded as a disgrace to it: "Michael's younger brother was the black sheep of the family"
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BLACK SHEEP definition: 1. a person who has done something bad that brings embarrassment or shame to his or her family: 2…. Learn more.
Jun 26, 2024 · The meaning of BLACK SHEEP is a disfavored or disreputable member of a group. How to use black sheep in a sentence.
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.
In the English language, 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 will not dye.
Black sheep have a recessive gene that makes their wool black in colour. This means that it can not be dyed a different colour and makes it less valuable than white wool. In the 16 th century sheep with black wool was seen as carrying the mark of the devil.
The black sheep is the odd one out, whether he's a disgrace to the family or just doesn't seem to belong. The origin of the phrase comes from the rare presence in a flock of white sheep of a sheep with black fleece.
The term “black sheep” refers to someone or something that is different or out of place in a group. It can be used in a negative or a positive way, depending on the context and the individual being described.
