Dictionary.com
definitions
  • synonyms

jackeroo

or jack·a·roo

[jak-uh-roo]Australian
noun, plural jack·e·roos.
  1. an inexperienced person working as an apprentice on a sheep ranch.
Show More
verb (used without object), jack·e·rooed, jack·e·roo·ing.
  1. to work as an apprentice on a sheep ranch.
Show More

Origin of jackeroo

1875–80; jack1 + (kang)aroo; cf. -eroo
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for jackeroo

Historical Examples

  • "Turn sharp to the left, and follow the fence," replied the jackeroo.

    The Shadow of a Man

    E. W. Hornung

  • The jackeroo sighed as he replaced the cork after a very modest sip.

    The Shadow of a Man

    E. W. Hornung

  • "Tally, sir," the jackeroo rejoined, and urged his horse to the front.

    The Shadow of a Man

    E. W. Hornung

  • The jackeroo at the end of the verandah had awakened from his drunken sleep, but had not moved.

    Over the Sliprails

    Henry Lawson

  • The Sydney jackeroo rose impulsively, but Jack glanced at him, and he sat down again.

    Over the Sliprails

    Henry Lawson

British Dictionary definitions for jackeroo

jackeroo

jackaroo

noun plural -roos
  1. Australian informal a young male management trainee on a sheep or cattle station
Show More

Word Origin

C19: from jack 1 + (kang) aroo
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012