The phrase 'ewe lamb' is commonly used to refer to a young female sheep. The first word 'ewe' is pronounced as /ju:/, with the IPA phonetic transcription representing the sounds 'y', 'oo' and a schwa sound. The second word 'lamb' is spelled the same way it is pronounced, with the IPA phonetic transcription being /læm/, representing the sounds 'l', 'ae' and 'm'. The phrase can also be spelled 'yew lamb' depending on regional variations in pronunciation.
"Ewe lamb" is a term used to refer to a female lamb, specifically one that has not yet reached sexual maturity. It is derived from the Old English word "ēowu" meaning "female sheep" and "lamb" referring to a young sheep.
An ewe lamb can generally be identified by its physical characteristics: it is a young female sheep that has not yet given birth to its first offspring. This term is commonly used in farming and animal husbandry contexts, particularly in reference to sheep farming practices. The ewe lamb holds significance in breeding programs as it is the future producer of the farmer's flock.
The term "ewe lamb" often carries symbolic meaning, beyond its literal definition. It is sometimes used metaphorically to describe a young, innocent, or vulnerable individual. This extension of the term encompasses the idea of protection and nurturing towards someone who is considered young, inexperienced, or defenseless.
In literature and religious texts, the concept of an ewe lamb has been used metaphorically to symbolize purity, innocence, or sacrifice. The biblical story of Abraham and Isaac, where an obedient Abraham is commanded to sacrifice his son Isaac to God, refers to Isaac as an "ewe lamb" due to his young age and innocence.
Overall, the term "ewe lamb" encompasses both literal and metaphorical senses, representing a young female sheep before she reaches sexual maturity, as well as symbolizing innocence, vulnerability, and the potential for growth.
The word "ewe lamb" originates from Old English, specifically from the combination of the word "ewe" and "lamb".
1. Ewe: The term "ewe" comes from the Old English word "ēowu", which in turn derives from the Proto-Germanic word "*awizō". This word eventually evolved into Middle English as "eouwe" and eventually became "ewe" in Modern English. An "ewe" refers to a female sheep.
2. Lamb: The term "lamb" originates from the Middle English word "lamb", which is derived from the Old English word "lamb". The Old English word itself derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*lambaz" and ultimately comes from the Proto-Indo-European root "*h₁l̥h₁m̥bh-". A "lamb" refers to a young sheep.