Defining 'Cowboy'

The English dictionary will define the word 'cowboy' as someone who tends to cattle horseback, but not all cowboys fit the script. The role of a cowboy is more than the boots and the hat; it is someone with strong morals and a work ethic alike. They may be stubborn but show determination and drive nonetheless with a respectful manner.

An endearing description to most, being a cowboy means something more than abilities on a horse. More known for character, a cowboy is someone who when he says he will do something, that is exactly what he will do. With a don't-quit attitude and a firm handshake, anyone can possess the qualities of a true cowboy.

We asked people of all disciplines and backgrounds to define the word for us in their own terms. Wrangled experts from all walks of the Western lifestyle bring their own brand of insight into the true meaning of a cowboy. 

"They may not wear the boots and hats, but they know how to get up and get to work. They are honest. Someone who knows how to treat others with respect and honesty. This is why people look up to cowboys; you know he is going to try and have heart, and when they say they will do something, they will. If they end up wearing a cowboy hat, it makes them easier to spot, but a cowboy is a characteristic, not about the hat and buckle." 
— Jess Tierney, professional rodeo cowboy, college rodeo coach and National Finals Rodeo qualifier

"A true cowboy is a life taking care of God's creation while living a life that is glorifying to the qualities that please Him. A love for Him and a love for others. Honesty and a work ethic. God gave the earth to us, and a true cowboy takes care of it the best he can, just like it tells us in Genesis 2:15 and Genesis 1:28." 
— Waitley Sharon, high school senior, all-around rodeo cowboy and national qualifier

"A cowboy is the hardest working man known. They have many jobs but gets everything done efficiently. Working long hours and still dedicating time to their family and everything important." 
— Sam Dudley, rural 4-H Leader and rodeo fan    

"A cowboy equals dedication, commitment, respect, and hard work; that is doing something that may not directly inspire you, but that is necessary for you to achieve a goal. It is mental perseverance - putting your mind to a task or a collection of tasks and seeing it through humbly." 
— Andre Coehlo, professional barrel horse trainer, originally from Brazil 

"I would say a true cowboy is someone that upholds how cowboys should act. A handshake is a commitment, true kindness towards not only animals but other people too, a great work ethic, loyalty to the life, and a respectful nature." 
— Ryleigh Hauer, equine rehabilitation specialist and nutritionist 

"I think a cowboy is someone who is not just a steward of livestock and God's creation but also someone who is willing to work hard, who has integrity, honesty, and is always willing to help others. A cowboy will always stand up for what is right."
— Harley Ann Baas, high school senior, all-around rodeo cowgirl and youth rodeo world champion  

"Cowboys live and die by the Western lifestyle where a handshake is binding, and your word is gold. They respect their elders and their women, and they honor the 'Mans Code.' Quick to open the door and lend a hand. Lawless when it comes to doing what is right and living by God's book. Strong enough to protect what is theirs but gentle enough, too. Gritty and rugged but honorable and kind, that is a cowboy."
— Sami Jo Buum, professional barrel racer and business owner  

"Someone who knows the right thing to do and does it regardless of what everyone else is doing. Cowboys don't just talk the talk, but they do whats right."
— Joe Stricklin, equine veterinarian 

"A cowboy to me is defined as someone who does more than tend to livestock daily. They are hardworking and gritty. It is more of a way of life than just a title. Cowboys do what is right and take no days off."
— Katelynn Thompson, lifelong rodeo fan and college academic advisor 

"A cowboy is a man's man. Somehow subconsciously, I suppose we link the cowboy lifestyle with the first command of the Good Book, where God blessed the first humans and told them to 'fill the earth and subdue it....' and then He reminds us in the middle of the Book, 'the earth He has given to the children of man,' And somehow as rodeo cowboys, in the arena, we are signifying what businessmen, blue-collar workers, farmers and ranch cowboys do every single day. Somehow in that arena, these "men's men," with boots, chaps, and cowboy hats, are attempting to subdue and have dominion, one run at a time."
— Lindy Sharon, nurse, rancher and rodeo mom 

"A cowboy is honest, courteous, kind, gritty, tough, determined, confident, dedicated, and reliable. They are always willing to help someone in need and does his or her best to live by the word and the code."
— Mitch Davis, college rodeo coach 

It is clear that this term may vary slightly in meaning to each individual, but all can agree that a cowboy is more about character than a hat or buckle. From world champions themselves to die-heart rodeo fans, they recognize and concur the cowboy spirit is not confined to any small box. 

So here is to the cowboy, of all disciplines, a symbol of enduring character.