What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sheepfold
Example
The shepherd led the flock into the sheepfold for the night. [sheepfold: noun]
Example
The sheepfold was built with sturdy wooden fences to keep the sheep safe. [sheepfold: adjective]
fold
Example
The farmer built a new fold for his sheep to graze in. [fold: noun]
Example
The shepherd counted the sheep by gathering them into a fold. [fold: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fold is more commonly used than sheepfold in everyday language. Fold is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while sheepfold is less common and refers specifically to a pen or enclosure for sheep.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sheepfold and fold?
While sheepfold is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, fold is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.