Your all-inclusive dude ranch getaway is going to be the adventure of a lifetime – an enchanting escape into the authentic landscape of the American West. Amidst all the horseback riding, farm-to-table freshness, and country fun, you might find yourself wishing you had some cowboy lingo to spice up your conversations.
Well, what are you waiting for? It’s time to inject some western flavor into your vocabulary with some cowboy slang for your upcoming adventures!
What is Cowboy Slang?
Cowboy slang was used during the time of the American Wild West – and may be still used by those who still live the cowboy lifestyle today. Cowboy words and phrases give us a peek into the life of a cowboy and can just be fun to say while enjoying a family vacation at our guest ranch in Colorado.
See Also: Horse Riding Terms for Beginners
Popular Cowboy Slang and Phrases
Expand your western vocabulary and impress your friends during your stay at C Lazy U! Here are some classic cowboy slang phrases to get you started:
Above Board
Something that is honest and legitimate. “The poker games here are all above board.”
Ace-High
This term comes from poker, but was also used to refer to things that were fine, luxurious, and respectable. “The lodges at C Lazy U sure are ace-high.”
Airin’ the Lungs
Cussing. “Hey, no airin’ the lungs out here! This is a family getaway.”
All Hat and No Cattle
Someone who talks big but can’t back it up. “He talks about cowboy life a lot, but he’s all hat and no cattle.”
Barn Sour
When a horse wants nothing more than to be in the barn. “I was worried Remi would be barn sour today, but all he wanted to do was explore the pasture!”
Bellyaching
Complaining. “Quit your bellyaching and enjoy the ride!”
Fixin’ To
Getting ready to do something. “I’m fixin’ to saddle up and hit the trail.”
Howdy
The typical cowboy greeting. “While you boys are out hatchet throwing, I’m going to say howdy to the Lazy You Spa.”
Jawing
Talking excessively. “They spent all night jawing by the campfire.”
Tarnation
A non-cuss exclamation. “Tarnation! Chef Cory sure can cook the perfect steak!”
Tenderfoot
Someone young or new to a job. “Our daughter may be a tenderfoot, but have you seen how they taught her to ride that horse? She’ll be a pro in no time!”
That Dog Won’t Hunt
That idea or plan won’t work. “Jane is trying to teach her husband about western fashion, but that dog won’t hunt.”
Too Much Mustard
A braggart, or the quality of bragging too much. “Jake beat us all at trap shooting, and now he’s got too much mustard for my liking.” Alternatively, you can say that someone is “too big for their britches.”
Yee-Haw!
The classic western expression of enthusiasm and excitement. You probably know it. Have you ever used it? If you’ve planned an all-inclusive trip to C Lazy U dude ranch – we guarantee you’ll be saying it soon!
Understanding Cowboy Lingo and Terms
Now that you’ve picked up some cowboy slang, let’s dive deeper into the colorful terms that shaped the Wild West. These expressions not only capture the spirit of the era but are still heard today in western culture.
Varmint
The cowboy way of saying “vermin,” often used to refer to small or medium-sized animals or an unsavory character.
“Did you see any varmints on the trail?”
Yellow-Belly
A term for a coward. This slang has medieval roots, but it became widely popular in the Old West.
“Jim was acting a little yellow-bellied before we did the ropes course… but now it’s all he can talk about!”
Wobblin’ Jaw
A big talker or someone who talks too much.
“I’d love to take Uncle Bill fly fishing… but he’s a bit of a wobblin’ jaw and might scare the fish!”
Famous Western Sayings and Their Meanings
The Wild West wasn’t just known for its rugged landscapes and daring adventures. It was also a place where western sayings and expressions became iconic. Here are a few famous cowboy phrases and their meanings:
That Dog Won’t Hunt
This phrase is used to say an idea or plan won’t work.
“Jane is trying to teach her husband about western fashion, but that dog won’t hunt.”
Too Big for Their Britches
A saying used to describe someone who’s become too arrogant or full of themselves.
“After winning the rodeo, he got too big for his britches.”
Desert Canary
A playful name for a donkey, often used to describe our beloved ranch residents like Tilly, Wilbur, and Petey.
“The kids had a blast visiting the desert canaries at C Lazy U!”
The Spirit of the West, Come to Life
Now that you know some cowboy terminology and can speak like a true rancher, it’s time to experience the spirit of the American West in person at C Lazy U Ranch. Whether you’re riding horseback, savoring our ranch’s farm-to-table cuisine, or exploring the wilderness, you’ll find that your adventure becomes even more memorable when you speak the language of the Old West.
Plan Your Wild West Vacation Today
C Lazy U isn’t just an all-inclusive guest ranch – it’s an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left. If you want to make your next family vacation one to remember, start planning today!
Book your stay at C Lazy U Ranch and discover why our guests keep coming back for more!
