schapenkop

Dutch

Alternative forms

  • schapekop (superseded spelling)

Etymology

Compound of schaap (“sheep”) +‎ kop (“cup”, “head”).

It is not entirely clear why inhabitants of Dordrecht are referred to by this name; various colorful aetiological stories have been adduced by folk etymologists.

Pronunciation

  • Audio:(file)

Noun

schapenkop m (plural schapenkoppen, diminutive schapenkopje n)

  1. (literally) a sheep's head
  2. (idiomatic) an inhabitant of Dordrecht
    Synonym: Dordtenaar

Usage notes

  • Like kaaskop (“cheesehead, Dutch person”), this term can be used positively as well as negatively.
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