noun

muleteer

myoo-luh-TEER/ˌmjuːləˈtɪr/

A person who drives or tends mules.

The muleteer guides the loaded mules along the narrow trail.

An older mule handler calmly leads one mule along a short stretch of trail, making the occupation clear through direct care and handling.

Etymology

Mulet began as a diminutive but became the ordinary French word for 'mule.' The person-forming ending turns that animal name into an occupation: someone who drives mules.

More examples

Before departure, the muleteer checks each mule’s pack.
Two muleteers bring the supplies up from the valley.
An experienced muleteer knows when the animals need rest.

Forms

muleteer · muleteers

Similar words

driver: Can direct other working animals or vehicles, not just mules.
handler: Emphasizes animal care and control rather than directing travel.