cowboy

word

/ˈkaʊˌbɔɪ/
KOW-boy
/kˈaʊbɔɪ/
KOW-boy

Definition

A cowboy is a man whose job is to ride horses and take care of cows, especially in the western US in the past. The word is also used more broadly for the traditional culture, clothes, and lifestyle connected with that image.

Usage & Nuances

Usually refers to the American West and has a strong cultural image: hats, boots, horses, and ranch life. In modern usage, it can also describe someone who acts in a wild, rough, or careless way in phrases like 'cowboy builder' or 'cowboy attitude' in some varieties of English.

Example Sentences

My son wants to dress like a cowboy for the party.

basic

The cowboy rode his horse across the field.

basic

In the movie, the cowboy wears a big hat and boots.

basic

He grew up on a ranch and still has that quiet cowboy style.

natural

Don't go all cowboy on this project—we need a careful plan.

natural

She loves old cowboy songs and western movies.

natural