rancher
UK: ˈrɑːn.tʃər | US: ˈræn.tʃɚ
n. a person who owns or manages a ranch
n. a worker on a ranch, especially one who tends cattle
The word "rancher" combines "ranch," derived from Spanish "rancho" (meaning a small farm or grazing land), with the English agent suffix "-er," indicating a person associated with an activity. "Rancho" itself traces back to Old Spanish "rancharse" (to settle or lodge), reflecting the historical context of land use in the Americas. The suffix "-er" solidifies the term as describing someone who operates or works on a ranch, emphasizing occupation over mere location.
The rancher woke early to check on the cattle.
She became a successful rancher after inheriting her family's land.
Modern ranchers often use technology to manage livestock.
The rancher hired seasonal workers for the roundup.
His dream was to retire as a rancher in Montana.