shepherd

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Religion Literary · Formal

n. someone who looks after or guides a group of people, like a leader in a church.

n. a person who protects, guides, or watches over a group, often used in a religious or metaphorical context.

“The local priest was seen as a kind shepherd to his community.”

“The community looked to the elder as a spiritual shepherd who could offer wisdom during times of social upheaval.”

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Informal

n. a common short name for a German Shepherd dog.

n. a colloquial shortening for the German Shepherd dog breed.

“They adopted a young shepherd from the animal shelter last week.”

“The police department prefers using a shepherd for search and rescue operations due to the breed's high intelligence and stamina.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to lead or guide a group of people somewhere, often to make sure they stay together.

v. to escort or guide a group of people in a specific direction, often to ensure their safety or orderly movement.

“The teachers helped shepherd the students through the busy museum.”

“Security guards were hired to shepherd the VIP guests through the crowd and into the private lounge.”