'sheepish' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'sceapisc,' where 'sceap' meant 'sheep.'

'sceapisc' transformed into the Middle English word 'schepish,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sheepish.'

Initially, it meant 'resembling a sheep in meekness or timidity,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'showing embarrassment from shame or a lack of self-confidence.'