The world of ranching is filled with history and tradition, and a diverse vocabulary reflects the various roles and influences within its culture. From the rugged landscapes of the Great Basin to the expansive ranches of the Southwest, terms like “buckaroo,” “cowboss” and “wrangler” paint a vivid picture of life in the saddle. Each title not only refers to a specific role, but carries a story rooted in the rich heritage of ranching. Explore the diverse terminology that defines cowboy culture and discover the important roles each figure plays on the ranch.
Buckaroo
Primarily used in the Western United States, more specifically the Great Basin region, a buckaroo is another term derived from “vaquero.” It reflects the rich Spanish and Mexican influences on cowboy culture in the region. Buckaroos often worked in large cattle operations, sporting flat hats and chinks, riding A-fork saddles and featuring lots of silver in their equipment.
Cowboss

Cowboy on horseback on the 6666 Ranch in 1939. Original image from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram Collection, University of Texas at Arlington Libraries.
The individual in charge of a ranch or cattle operation, often serving as the head cowboy, is referred to as a “cowboss.” This person oversees the day-to-day management of the ranch, including the care of livestock, coordination of cattle drives and supervision of other cowboys and workers. The cowboss is responsible for making key decisions related to the operation, including hiring and firing cowboys. This role requires extensive knowledge of cattle, ranching practices and leadership skills.
Cowboy
The classic term, “cowboy”, was first documented in the English language by 1725 and comes from the Spanish word vaquero, which translates to “one who manages cattle from horseback.” It is also documented that the term “cowboy” referred to African Americans in the trade, as being called “boy” regardless of age came from slavery in the South. Historians estimate that one out of every four cowboys in the American West were African American. Nowadays, cowboys come from all races and backgrounds. A cowboy typically works on a ranch, tending to cattle and performing duties on horseback.

American cowgirl, Fern Sawyer, with a horse in the 1940s. Original image from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram Collection, University of Texas at Arlington Libraries.
Cowgirl
A cowgirl is a woman who works on the ranch, often performing all the same duties as a cowboy. The image of a cowgirl has also become a symbol of empowerment and resilience.
Cowhand
Similar to a cowboy, a cowhand is a person who works with cattle. The term generally can be interchanged with “cowboy.” In the 19th century, cowhands referred to exclusively white males.
Cowpuncher
The term “cowpuncher” originally described cowboys who used long poles to “poke” or “punch” cattle along a trail or onto railcars. It is most commonly used in the southwestern regions of the United States and emphasizes the physical labor of driving cattle. A similar term is cowpoke.
Ranch Hand
A general worker on a ranch is referred to as a ranch hand. A ranch hand assists with various tasks, which may include caring for livestock, repairing fences and maintaining equipment. Ranch hands are necessary to the success of a ranch, often working alongside cowboys to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Vaquero

Vaqueros in the 19th century. Image courtesy of True West magazine.
The term vaquero comes from the Spanish word “vaca,” which means cow. Vaquero specifically refers to the traditional cattle herders in Mexico. Vaqueros were some of the first cowboys in the Americas and influenced cowboy culture in the United States, especially in the Southwest.
Waddie
A “waddie” is another term for a cowboy in the western United States. The exact origin of this slang term is unknown but is thought to have been derived from the word “wad”, which served the role of filling gaps, as waddies would fill gaps until more cowboys could be hired.
Wrangler
A specialized cowboy, or wrangler, is responsible for the handling and caring of horses. This role involves everything from training horses to ensuring they are fit for work. Wranglers are essential on ranches, especially those that focus heavily on horse riding and training.
The diversity of roles within the ranching lifestyle illustrates the collaborative spirit of ranching. Each position complements the others, creating a system where teamwork is essential for success. This rich array of names and responsibilities not only reflects the practicality of ranch life, but also the historical and cultural significance of these roles.
Understanding the various names and functions associated with cowboys enrich our appreciation of the ranching lifestyle. It highlights the complexity and depth of a culture that has evolved over time, shaped by the contributions of many individuals.