A man who tends to or herds cattle, especially on a farm or ranch.
From 'cow' (bovine animal, from Old English 'cu') + 'man' (adult male person). This occupational title has been used since at least medieval times to describe farm workers.
Cowman was such a common job title that it became a measure of social status in rural communities—a skilled cowman could earn respect and good wages because healthy cattle were essential to a farm's survival.
Generic occupational term defaulting to masculine form. Female cattle workers were historically titled 'milkmaid,' 'dairymaid,' or remained unnamed in employment records, reflecting gender segregation in agricultural labor.
Use 'cattle hand,' 'herder,' 'ranch worker,' or 'cattle worker' regardless of gender, or use the person's specific title.
["cattle worker","herder","cattle hand","ranch worker"]
Women have been integral to cattle operations and dairy production worldwide; gendered terminology obscured their labor and expertise.
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