cowboys

word · lemma: cowboy

/ˈkaʊˌbɔɪz/
KOW-boyz
/kˈaʊbɔɪz/
KOW-boyz

Definition

Men, often in the American West, who take care of cattle and often ride horses. 'Cowboys' can also refer to people in movies or stories about the Wild West.

Usage & Nuances

Usually refers to male cattle workers in the U.S. West, but also the heroes of Western movies. Can be used informally for someone acting wild or tough. Plural 'cowboys' is most common. Not to be confused with 'gaucho' (South American) or 'vaquero' (Spanish heritage).

Example Sentences

The cowboys rode their horses across the field.

basic

Not all cowboys wore hats and boots—some just did hard work on the ranch.

natural

Many movies are about cowboys and the Wild West.

basic

These days, people sometimes dress up as cowboys for parties.

natural

My brother loves old stories about brave cowboys and their adventures.

natural

The cowboys watched the cattle all day.

basic