Cowhand: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to refer to someone who works on a ranch handling cattle. It doesn't carry the romantic or rugged connotations often associated with 'cowboy.'

• The cowhand spent the entire day tending to the livestock
• The ranch hired three new cowhands this season

Often used to evoke an adventurous, rugged image, popularized by Western movies and culture. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who takes risks or acts independently, sometimes recklessly.

• He dressed up as a cowboy for Halloween
• The startup's CEO was known as a bit of a cowboy in the tech industry

Similar to 'cowboy,' but often used in a more casual or even slightly diminutive way. It might evoke a sense of familiarity or affection.

• That old cowpoke always had a story to tell
• The kids loved listening to the tales told by the friendly cowpoke

A more general term that refers to someone performing various duties on a ranch, not limited to handling cattle. It focuses more on the broad range of work rather than the cultural imagery.

• As a ranch hand, she did everything from fixing fences to feeding animals
• The ranch was short-staffed, so they were looking to hire a few more ranch hands