Maverick Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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maverick
[ˈmævərɪk ]
Definition
personality trait
A maverick is someone who is independent-minded, unconventional, and not afraid to challenge the status quo. Mavericks often go against the norms and expectations of society, choosing to follow their own path.
Synonyms
individualist, nonconformist, rebel.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| maverick |
Used to describe someone who is independent and does not follow the usual rules or traditions. Often used to highlight someone's originality or innovative thinking.
|
| nonconformist |
Used for someone who refuses to conform to established customs, attitudes, or ideas. It is often used to describe someone who actively chooses to be different and can have a positive or neutral connotation.
|
| rebel |
Describes someone who resists authority, control, or tradition. This term often carries a negative connotation and suggests defiance or disobedience.
|
| individualist |
Refers to someone who prefers to act on their own and values personal independence. This term is neutral and emphasizes self-reliance and personal freedom.
|
Examples of usage
- He was known as a maverick in the industry for his innovative ideas.
- The politician's maverick approach to governance earned both praise and criticism.
- The artist's maverick attitude towards art pushed boundaries and inspired others.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The 1986 movie 'Top Gun' featured a character named Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell, portraying an unconventional Navy pilot.
- Mavericks are often celebrated in stories and films for their bravery and creativity, making them appealing figures in popular culture.
- Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk is frequently labeled a maverick for his innovative ideas and disruption of multiple industries.
Science
- In psychology, maverick thinkers are often associated with creativity, which is the ability to generate new and original ideas.
- Studies show that maverick individuals may enhance problem-solving capabilities as they often see things from various perspectives.
- The willingness to take risks, a hallmark of a maverick, can lead to significant advancements in fields like technology and medicine.
History
- During the American Civil War, individuals who acted independently and promoted new strategies were referred to as mavericks.
- The concept of maverick behavior has been linked to various historical figures who challenged authority, like Rosa Parks in the Civil Rights Movement.
- The idea of the maverick spirit is often tied to the American frontier, where individuals pushed boundaries and sought adventure.
Literature
- Many literary characters, such as Holden Caulfield from 'The Catcher in the Rye', exemplify the maverick spirit through their non-conformity.
- The term is used in contemporary literature to explore themes of individuality and rebellion against societal expectations.
- Classic novels often highlight a maverick as a hero, facing struggles and ultimately influencing others positively.
Origin of 'maverick'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'maverick' originated in the mid-19th century from Samuel Maverick, a Texas rancher who did not brand his cattle.
- Initially, the word referred to unbranded cattle, symbolizing those who stand apart from the rest.
- Over time, it evolved to describe individuals who challenge norms and traditions.
The word 'maverick' originated in the 19th century in Texas, USA. It is named after Samuel Maverick, a Texas lawyer and landowner known for not branding his cattle. As a result, unbranded cattle became known as 'mavericks'. Over time, the term evolved to describe individuals who exhibited independent and unconventional behavior.
See also: mavericks.