Definition of cowboy

The origin of the word "cowboy" dates back to the 17th century, when English and Scottish settlers brought their cattle-raising practices to North America. The term "cow boy" initially referred to a young, untrained or inexperienced cowhand who would drive cattle across the range. The word is believed to have originated from "cow," referring to the cattle, and "boy," a term used to describe a younger male worker. Over time, the term evolved to encompass a broader range of cattle handlers, from the rough-riding, lonesome cowpokes of the American West to the sophisticated, high-stakes ranchers of the cattle industry. The iconic image of the American cowboy, complete with cowboy hat, boots, and lasso, was popularized in the late 19th and early 20th centuries through literature, music, and film. Today, the term "cowboy" has become synonymous with rugged individualism, freedom, and the wild, untamed spirit of the American West.