Sheep
Sheep (Ovis aries)
Sheep (pronounced /ʃiːp/; singular and plural) are a type of domesticated mammal from the genus Ovis. The word 'sheep' comes from the Old English 'sceap', which is of Germanic origin.
Etymology
The word 'sheep' is derived from the Old English 'sceap', which is of Germanic origin. The word 'Ovis' is Latin for 'sheep', and 'aries' is Latin for 'ram', a male sheep.
Description
Sheep are typically kept as livestock due to their ability to produce commodities such as wool, milk, and meat. They are ruminant animals, meaning they have a unique digestive system that allows them to break down plant-based food by fermenting it in a specialized stomach prior to digestion.
Breeds
There are numerous breeds of sheep, each with their own specific traits and adaptations. Some of the most common breeds include the Merino, known for its high-quality wool, and the Suffolk, prized for its meat.
Related Terms
- Lamb: A young sheep.
- Ewe: A female sheep.
- Ram: A male sheep.
- Wool: The soft, curly hair that grows on sheep.
- Mutton: The meat of an adult sheep.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sheep
- Wikipedia's article - Sheep
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