Count sheep

Meaning

Try to fall asleep by imagining sheep jumping fences.

Usage

Used when someone struggles with insomnia.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Folklore advice to calm the mind by counting animals.

A bedtime practice referenced in pastoral writings since the 18th century.