bellwether

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Definitions from WordNet

Noun bellwether has 2 senses

bellwether - someone who assumes leadership of a movement or activity
--₁ is a kind of leader
bellwether - sheep that leads the herd often wearing a bell
--₂ is a kind of wether

Definitions from the Web

Bellwether

Noun

Sense 1:

A bellwether is an individual, group, or product that serves as a leader or indicator of future trends.

Example Sentence:

Apple Inc. has always been considered a bellwether in the tech industry, with its product launches often setting the tone for the entire market.

Sense 2:

In farming, a bellwether is a castrated ram (male sheep) that leads the flock, wearing a bell around its neck.

Example Sentence:

The bellwether gently guided the flock of sheep along the countryside, its melodious tinkling bell announcing their presence.

Adjective

Sense 1:

When used as an adjective, bellwether describes a person or thing that is indicative of trends or patterns in a particular area.

Example Sentence:

The historian's latest book is a bellwether work for analyzing global political shifts.

Sense 2:

Describing a popular or local bellwether product that reflects the characteristics and preferences of a specific region or community.

Example Sentence:

This boutique offers a wide range of bellwether clothing items that showcase the unique style and spirit of the local community.