What does ‘a wolf in sheep's clothing’ mean?
To “a wolf in sheep's clothing” means to a dangerous person disguised as harmless. The phrase comes from the Gospel of Matthew (7:15). Brewer's Dictionary lists it among the biblical proverbs that have entered common English.
Origin
- The phrase comes from the Gospel of Matthew (7:15). Brewer's Dictionary lists it among the biblical proverbs that have entered common English.
How to use it
- Used for hypocrites, con artists, and outwardly friendly threats.
- Example: That lender looked helpful but turned out to be a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Source:
Last verified: 2026-07-18
- Definitions and origins are drawn from public-domain reference works, primarily Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable (1898), with modern usage notes clearly marked.