bellwether Definition
- 1the leading sheep of a flock, with a bell on its neck
- 2a person or thing that assumes the leadership or forefront, especially of a trend or political movement
Using bellwether: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "bellwether" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The company is seen as a bellwether for the industry.
Example
The stock market is often considered a bellwether of the economy.
Example
The state has long been a bellwether in presidential elections.
bellwether Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using bellwether
to blindly follow someone or something without question or thought
Example
He followed the advice of his friend like a bellwether, even though it led to disastrous consequences.
to sound an alarm or warning about something
Example
The report should ring the bellwether for policymakers, highlighting the urgent need for action on climate change.
a state that is considered a reliable indicator of how the national political mood is trending
Example
Florida is often referred to as a bellwether state, with its voting patterns often predicting the outcome of presidential elections.
Phrases with bellwether
a state or district that is considered a reliable indicator of how the national political mood is trending
Example
Ohio has long been considered a political bellwether, with its voting patterns often predicting the outcome of presidential elections.
an industry or company that is considered a reliable indicator of how the economy is performing
Example
The housing market is often seen as an economic bellwether, with its ups and downs reflecting broader trends in the economy.
a person or group that is considered a reliable indicator of cultural trends or shifts
Example
The fashion industry is often seen as a cultural bellwether, with designers setting the tone for what will be popular in the coming seasons.
Origins of bellwether
from Middle English 'bellewether', literally 'bell-wether', from 'belle' (bell) + 'wether' (ram)
Summary: bellwether in Brief
The term 'bellwether' [ˈbɛlwɛðər] refers to a leading person or thing that sets the pace or direction for others to follow. It can refer to a sheep with a bell on its neck that leads a flock, or to a person or thing that assumes the leadership or forefront, especially of a trend or political movement. Examples include 'The company is seen as a bellwether for the industry.' and 'The state has long been a bellwether in presidential elections.' Idioms like 'follow like a bellwether' and 'ring the bellwether' add to its usage.
