German Origin
Schafkopf
German: "Schafkopf" — barrel head, or literally "sheep's head"
Definition
The German ancestor of Sheepshead, originating in Bavaria in the 1700s. The name likely refers to playing on a barrel head ("Schaff" = barrel, "Kopf" = head), though it's often translated as "sheep's head."
Related Terms
Schmear
To throw high-point cards (Aces, Tens) on a trick your teammate is winning. Essential strategy for maximizing points.
Schneider
When the losing team scores fewer than 31 points. Doubles all scores for the hand.
Schwarz
When the losing team wins zero tricks. Triples all scores for the hand. Rare but devastating!