What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
herdman
Example
The herdman made sure the cows were fed and watered before settling them in for the night. [herdman: noun]
Example
He spent his days as a herdman, tending to the sheep and making sure they were safe from predators. [herdman: noun]
cowboy
Example
The cowboy rode his horse through the fields, rounding up the cattle. [cowboy: noun]
Example
She was impressed by his cowboy skills, as he expertly lassoed the runaway calf. [cowboy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cowboy is more commonly used than herdman in everyday language, particularly in the context of western-themed media and entertainment. However, both words are still used in the agricultural industry to describe workers who handle livestock.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between herdman and cowboy?
Both herdman and cowboy are relatively informal terms, but cowboy may be slightly more versatile in terms of formality, as it can be used in both casual and more formal contexts.