Bitesheep

/ˈbaɪtˌʃip/ noun

Definition

A dialect or archaic term for a person who is easily deceived or cheated; a dupe or gullible person.

Etymology

From bite (in the sense of 'to cheat or defraud') + sheep (used metaphorically for a foolish or easily led person). This compound word reflects historical usage where 'biting' meant swindling and 'sheep' represented foolishness.

Kelly Says

In old English slang, a 'bitesheep' was someone con artists targeted—the word combines two ideas perfectly: being 'bitten' (cheated) and being like a 'sheep' (easily led). It's almost poetic how perfectly it captured what we'd now call a 'mark' or victim.

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