bellwether
UK: ˈbelˌweð.ər | US: ˈbelˌweð.ɚ
n. a leader or trendsetter, especially in a particular field or movement
n. (originally) a sheep wearing a bell, leading the flock
bellwether = bell<audible signal> + wether<castrated ram>
- bell: From Old English belle, meaning a hollow metallic object that produces sound when struck.
- wether: From Old English weðer, referring to a castrated ram (often chosen to lead flocks due to docility).
Etymology Origin:
The term originated in sheepherding, where a wether (castrated ram) would wear a bell to guide the flock. Over time, it metaphorically expanded to denote any leader or indicator of trends, reflecting the idea of "leading the way." The logic is clear: just as the bellwether sheep physically guided others, modern bellwethers (e.g., influential people or early indicators) symbolically steer direction.
The tech giant has long been a bellwether for industry innovations.
In politics, Iowa is often considered a bellwether state during elections.
The stock’s performance is a bellwether for the broader market.
She became the bellwether of the environmental movement.
Historically, the bellwether sheep ensured the flock stayed together.