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schapekop (superseded spelling)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)

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

Usage notes

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