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• schapekop (superseded spelling)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

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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.