What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cowherd
Example
The cowherd led the cows to the pasture for grazing. [cowherd: noun]
Example
She spent her childhood working as a cowherd on her family's farm. [cowherd: noun]
cowboy
Example
The cowboy rode his horse through the fields, rounding up the cattle. [cowboy: noun]
Example
He learned how to be a cowboy from his father, who worked on a ranch for many years. [cowboy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cowboy is more commonly used than cowherd in everyday language, particularly in Western cultures where it has a strong cultural significance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cowherd and cowboy?
Both cowherd and cowboy are relatively informal terms, but cowboy may be considered slightly more formal due to its cultural associations and use in media and entertainment.
