bell cow
The term "bell cow" originates from the practice of attaching a bell to the lead cow in a herd to help keep track of it. It has since been adopted metaphorically to describe leaders in various contexts.
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Definition
B2Agriculture
(technical)The lead cow in a herd, typically identified by a bell around its neck.
Example
- The farmer always keeps an eye on the bell cow to ensure the herd moves in the right direction.
C1General
(idiom)A person or entity that leads or sets an example for others to follow.
Example
- In the tech industry, this company is considered the bell cow, leading innovation and setting trends.
- She was the bell cow of the project, guiding the team to success.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "bell cow":