“A wolf in sheep’s clothing” is the phrase for a dangerous person who hides behind a harmless, friendly appearance. Here is what it means, where it comes from, how to use it, and a few sayings that share its warning.
What Does “A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” Mean?
The phrase describes a person who appears gentle, friendly, or harmless on the outside, but is really dangerous, hostile, or out to do harm. The pleasant exterior is a disguise that hides a predator’s true nature. It is a warning to look past a charming or innocent appearance, because the most dangerous enemies are often the ones who do not look dangerous at all.
Origin of the Proverb
The image is ancient and comes to us from two great sources. It is the theme of one of Aesop’s fables, in which a wolf wraps himself in a fleece to slip in among the sheep unnoticed. It also appears famously in the Bible, where Jesus warns in the Gospel of Matthew (7:15): “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Between the fable and the scripture, the phrase has been a byword for hidden danger for many centuries.
Examples in a Sentence
- “He seemed so charming, but he was a wolf in sheep’s clothing.”
- “Beware of that friendly offer — it could be a wolf in sheep’s clothing.”
- “The scam was a wolf in sheep’s clothing, dressed up as a charity.”
Similar Proverbs
- Appearances can be deceiving — what looks harmless may not be.
- The devil hides behind the cross — evil often disguises itself as good.
- A honeyed tongue with a heart of gall — sweet words hiding ill intent.
- Velvet paws hide sharp claws — a gentle surface can conceal danger.
For more warnings about appearances, see our appearance proverbs and the full library of proverbs and their meanings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “a wolf in sheep’s clothing” mean?
It means a dangerous or hostile person who hides behind a gentle, friendly, or harmless appearance.
Where does the phrase come from?
It comes from both Aesop’s fables and the Bible — Jesus warns in Matthew 7:15 of false prophets who “come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
What is a similar proverb?
“Appearances can be deceiving” and “the devil hides behind the cross” share the warning that danger may hide behind an innocent face.