a performer who gives exhibitions of riding and roping and bulldogging
"The rodeo star, known locally as a cowboy, dazzled the crowd by performing daring displays of horseback riding and rope throwing."
someone who is reckless or irresponsible (especially in driving vehicles)
"The cowboy driver was fined multiple times for speeding and tailgating, proving he had no regard for safety on the road."
A man who tends free-range cattle, especially in the American West.
"The experienced cowboy herded the free-range cattle across the vast plains of the American West."
In plain English: A cowboy is someone who herds cattle on large ranches, usually riding horses and wearing traditional western clothing.
"The cowboy rode his horse down dusty trails to round up stray cattle."
Usage: Use this term to describe someone whose job is herding livestock across open ranges, particularly in historical Western settings. Avoid using it metaphorically for any modern leader unless you are specifically referencing that cultural tradition of independent authority.
To work as a cowboy, herding cattle.
"After college, he decided to become a full-time cowboy and spent his days herding cattle across the open range."
In plain English: To cowboy something means to fix it up quickly and roughly so that it works again, usually without caring about doing a perfect job.
"The cowboy roped the stray calf before sunset."
The English term cowboy is a straightforward combination of the words cow and boy that emerged to describe someone who tends cattle. It derives from Old French boeuf, which ultimately traces back to an ancient root meaning "cow.