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What does the cowboy slang mean?

Cowboy slang, also known as "cowboy talk" or "cowboy lingo," is a colorful and unique vocabulary used by cowboys throughout history. It's a blend of English, Spanish, and Native American influences, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of those who worked on the range. Here are some common terms and their meanings:

Animals:

* Bronc: A wild horse.

* Cayuse: A small, hardy horse, often a pony.

* Dogie: A motherless calf or young steer.

* Mustang: A wild horse descended from Spanish stock.

* Range: Open grazing land.

* Rustler: A cattle thief.

* Steer: A castrated male cow.

Equipment:

* Bunkhouse: A building where cowboys slept.

* Chuck wagon: A wagon used to carry food and supplies.

* Chaps: Leather leggings worn for protection.

* Hat: A wide-brimmed hat worn for shade and protection.

* Lariat: A rope used for catching cattle.

* Saddle: A seat for a horse rider.

* Spurs: Metal devices worn on boots to urge a horse forward.

Activities:

* Branding: Marking cattle with a hot iron.

* Chucking: Throwing a lariat to catch an animal.

* Drivin': Herding cattle over long distances.

* Roundup: Gathering cattle together.

* Roping: Catching cattle with a lariat.

General:

* Badlands: Rough, desolate country.

* Howdy: A greeting, meaning "How do you do?"

* Howdy-do: Another way of saying "hello."

* Outlaw: A person who breaks the law.

* Trail: A route traveled by cowboys and cattle.

* Wrangler: A cowboy who takes care of horses.

Expressions:

* "Git along little dogies": A song that cowboys would sing to herd cattle.

* "Boots and saddles": A call to get ready to ride.

* "High-tail it": To run away quickly.

* "Hold your horses": To wait patiently.

* "You're a regular varmint": A term of amusement or endearment.

Cowboy slang is still used today, although many of the words and phrases are not as common as they once were. It's a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the American West.

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