trail boss

noun

1. (in Western U.S.) a person responsible for driving a herd of cattle.

Word History and Origins

Origin of trail boss¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90

Example Sentences

I wrote this quick little outline, and I called it City Slickers — three friends go on a fantasy cattle drive, trail boss dies, they have to bring in the herd, metaphor for life and family, secrets friends have, something like that.

From Ozy

"If it's convenient, let's keep an eye on those boys the next few years," said the trail boss, catching sight of his remuda.

From Project Gutenberg

"You would be doing wrong to leave this range," said the trail boss in fatherly tones.

From Project Gutenberg

There was a marked silence, only broken by a clatter of hoofs, and the trail boss cantered up to the tent.

From Project Gutenberg

Patience had almost ceased to be a virtue when the trail boss put in an appearance at the tent.

From Project Gutenberg

After a change of mounts for the foreman, Dell and the trail boss drifted the strays up the creek.

From Project Gutenberg