What Is a Group of Sheep Called? Not Necessarily a Herd

If you've ever driven past a pasture dotted with woolly creatures and wondered, " What is a group of sheep called ," you're not alone.

Though many assume it's a herd, the word "flock" is actually the most accurate term.

The Correct Collective Noun for Sheep

A group of sheep is generally referred to as a "flock." This term originates from Old English "flocc" (meaning a crowd or band) and was later used in Middle English to refer to groups of animals.

While "herd" is common for hoofed mammals like cows or deer, "flock" is the traditional and specific term for sheep, especially in British English.

Americans may use "herd" interchangeably, but farmers and shepherds around the world more commonly stick to "flock."

On larger farms or in areas with thousands of sheep, such as New Zealand