wolf in sheep's clothing
Someone who or something which is harmful or threatening but disguised as something peaceful or pleasant.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Be careful, he is a wolf in sheep's clothing.”
“The charming new manager turned out to be a wolf in sheep's clothing who fired everyone after a week.”
“History is full of leaders who appeared benevolent to the public, only to be revealed as a wolf in sheep's clothing once they secured absolute power.”
From Matthew 7:15 in the Bible (King James Version; spelling modernized): “Beware of false prophets which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
- 01
cry wolf
To raise a false alarm; to constantly warn others about an imagined threat, thereby failing to get assistance when a real threat appears.
- 02
have the wolf by the ear
To be in a dangerous situation from which one cannot disengage, but in which one cannot safely remain.
- 03
keep the wolf from the door
To ward off poverty or hunger.
- 04
throw to the wolves
To sacrifice someone, especially in an attempt to save oneself.
- 05
wolf down
To consume (food) quickly or greedily, without regard for table manners.
- 06
wolf guarding the sheep
Synonym of poacher turned gamekeeper.
- 07
wolf in one's stomach
A ravenous hunger; a large appetite.
- 08
wolf of Wall Street
(A name for) an aggressive, prominent, and wealthy financier; specifically (derogatory), one who swindles or takes unfair advantage of people.
Last updated August 10, 2026