Cowboy
'kaʊbɔɪ
Definitions
2 meaningsA herdsman who works on horseback, especially in the American West.
'kaʊbɔɪ
A person, typically on horseback, who herds and tends cattle.
The cowboy roped the stray calf.
💡 Simply: A cowboy is like a rancher's helper who rides a horse and takes care of cows. They work outdoors, herding cattle and making sure they're safe. Imagine them in a cool hat, riding a horse and roping cows!
👶 For kids: A cowboy is a person who takes care of cows, usually riding a horse!
More Examples
The cowboys drove the herd across the plains.
Many cowboys were skilled riders and marksmen.
How It's Used
"The cowboy rode off into the sunset."
"Cowboys played a significant role in the expansion of the American West."
A person who acts recklessly or without regard for safety or rules.
'kaʊbɔɪ
A person who behaves in a reckless or unconventional way.
The company's 'cowboy' approach to investing was risky.
💡 Simply: Sometimes people use 'cowboy' to describe someone who does things without thinking, taking big risks, and not following the rules. It's like a cowboy riding a wild horse – exciting, but maybe a little dangerous!
👶 For kids: Sometimes 'cowboy' can mean someone who does things in a wild and crazy way, not always caring about rules!
More Examples
He's known for his cowboy lifestyle, always on the move.
The politician had a cowboy attitude when it came to environmental regulations.
How It's Used
"He has a cowboy attitude towards rules, always bending them to his will."
"The company's cowboy approach to marketing involved some high-risk advertising."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
Urban cowboy
A person who embraces cowboy fashion or lifestyle in an urban environment, often as a trend or form of self-expression, but without being a traditional cowboy.
"He went to the country bar looking like an urban cowboy in his boots and hat."
Lone cowboy
A person who works or acts independently, often without support or assistance from others; an individual who is self-reliant.
"He preferred to work as a lone cowboy, making his own decisions."
From 'cow' + 'boy', originating in North America in the late 18th/early 19th century, initially referring to a herdsman who tended cattle on horseback, particularly in the American West.
The term 'cowboy' gained popularity in the 19th century with the expansion of cattle ranching in the American West. Their role as cattle drivers became iconic.
Memory tip
Think of a cow, the animal, and a boy taking care of it.
Word Origin
"cow (animal) + boy (young male)"