Meaning & use

sheepishly

adverb·Academic

In a way that shows embarrassment or shyness, especially after doing something wrong or foolish.

See it in a sentence

He sheepishly admitted that he had forgotten his own wedding anniversary.

She smiled sheepishly after tripping in front of the whole classroom.

A note on using this word

Usually follows a small mistake or awkward moment, paired with a smile, grin, or admission.

Words with a similar meaning

bashfullyshylyguiltily

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

boldlyconfidently

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “sheepishly”, then compare your use with the examples above.

Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.