noun
vaquero
vah-KAIR-oh/vɑˈkɛroʊ/
A Spanish or Mexican cowboy who tends cattle.
The vaquero rides alongside the herd and watches for straying cattle.
Etymology
The cow root and occupational ending make vaquero literally a cattle worker. English uses it specifically for a Spanish or Mexican cowboy or cattle herder.
In context
… the Vaquero tradition with the Californios it was a spanish-style bridle bits and the Romel reins …
More examples
- Two vaqueros bring the cattle in from the hills.
- On this Mexican ranch, each vaquero cares for a large herd.
- A skilled vaquero ropes the calf so its injured leg can be treated.
Forms
vaquero · vaqueros
Similar words
- cowboy
- A broader term without the specifically Spanish or Mexican identity.
- cowhand
- Emphasizes cattle-tending work rather than a Spanish or Mexican identity.