Vaquero Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ด
vaquero
[vฤหkerล ]
Definition
cowboy profession
A vaquero is a traditional Spanish term for a cattle driver or cowboy, primarily in the Spanish-speaking regions of the Americas. This term dates back to the colonial period and is often associated with the skilled horsemen responsible for herding cattle. Vaqueros played a significant role in the ranching culture of Mexico and the southwestern United States. Their influence can be observed in modern cowboy culture and practices.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The vaquero rode confidently across the rugged terrain.
- Many vaqueros work on large ranches in Texas.
- The skills of a vaquero are essential for managing livestock.
- He learned the art of lassoing from a seasoned vaquero.
Translations
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Origin of 'vaquero'
The term 'vaquero' comes from the Spanish word 'vaca', meaning 'cow'. It evolved during the period of the Spanish colonization of the Americas, where ranching became vital to the economy and lifestyle. The vaquero is sometimes considered the precursor to the American cowboy, adapting techniques from Spanish traditions. The legacy of the vaquero remains significant in the folklore of the American West, embodying a romanticized image of the cowboy and the ranching culture. Their practices, gear, and even language influenced modern rodeo and cattle handling, establishing the vaquero as a pivotal figure in both Mexican and American frontier history.