n
1. ( also infml cowpoke , cowpuncher ) a man who looks after cattle in the US West. He usually rides a horse to move and control them. Cowboys were especially important during the late 19th century, when they were needed to drive cattle over long distances. They were given a good public image in books and westerns , and Americans greatly admire their tough outdoor life and independent spirit. They still exist in the western US, and some compete in rodeos . See also cowboys and Indians .
2. ( BrE infml disapprov ) a dishonest or careless person in business, especially one who has no qualifications:
The builders who repaired the roof were just a bunch of cowboys.