bellwether

[ bel-weth-er ]

noun

1. a wether or other male sheep that leads the flock, usually bearing a bell.
2. a person or thing that assumes the leadership or forefront, as of a profession or industry:

   Paris is a bellwether of the fashion industry.

   Synonyms: trailblazer, front runner, pacesetter, leader

3. a person or thing that shows the existence or direction of a trend; index.
4. a person who leads a mob, mutiny, conspiracy, or the like; ringleader.

bellwether

/ ˈbɛlˌwɛðə /

noun

1. a sheep that leads the herd, often bearing a bell
2. a leader, esp one followed unquestioningly

Word History and Origins

Origin of bellwether¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; bell ¹, wether

Example Sentences

In a new book, pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. Adam Ratner details the history of measles, a virus that’s often a bellwether for public health disasters.

From Los Angeles Times

Hermits retreat from society regardless of political bellwethers.

From Salon

The situation on the border is the biggest bellwether of the relationship.

From BBC

“I like to call Devils Hole kind of a canary in the coal mine or a bellwether,” Wilson said.

From Los Angeles Times

Walmart, which brings in millions of customers each week, is a bellwether of U.S. consumer trends.

From New York Times