Lamb Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/læm/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A young sheep, typically not yet a year old, often known for its soft and curly wool.

Examples

• The farmer raised a lamb on his farm.
• Lamb is a popular dish in many cuisines.

Synonyms

• Sheep
• Young goat

Antonyms

• Calf
• Kid

Etymology

The word “Lamb” originated from Old English “lamb”, which is derived from Proto-Germanic “*lamiz”, related to Greek “lámos” (λαμός) and Latin “agnus”, both meaning “lamb” or “sheep”.

Usage Notes

Lamb is a noun and is typically used to refer to a young sheep, often in a figurative or metaphorical sense. It can also be used as an adjective to describe something related to or resembling a lamb.

Cultural References

Lamb has appeared in various cultural references, including literature (e.g. “The Lamb” by Yeats) and music (e.g. “Lamb” by The Cranberries).

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “The lamb is led to the slaughter” – a phrase meaning something is about to be sacrificed or destroyed.
• “Come from lamb’s wool” – a phrase meaning something comes from a peaceful source.

Related Words or Phrases

• Sheep
• Goat
• Zoe

Frequency of Use

Lamb is a relatively common noun in modern language, often used to refer to a young sheep in everyday conversation.

Common Misspellings

• Laeb
• Lambm