Cowboys often referred to horses, and other animals, as "critters." This informal term was a common part of their everyday lexicon on the range.
Understanding the Term "Critter"
The word "critter" serves as a colloquial and versatile term used by cowboys. It isn't a specific breed name or a technical classification, but rather a general designation for an animal.
- Broad Application: While frequently applied to horses, the term "critter" was also commonly used for other livestock, such as cows. In essence, any animal encountered on the ranch or open range could be affectionately, or simply practically, referred to as a "critter."
- Informal Usage: This usage highlights the practical and unpretentious nature of cowboy language. Instead of always using formal animal names, "critter" provided a quick and familiar way to speak about the creatures they worked with daily.
The Context of Cowboy Lingo
Cowboy terminology was shaped by the demands of their challenging profession and life in the American West. Their language was often:
- Direct and Functional: Terms were often practical and descriptive, reflecting the realities of ranching, herding, and life outdoors.
- Rooted in Experience: Much like specific gear names (e.g., lariat, chaps), animal terms were integrated into the daily rhythm of working with livestock.
- Regionally Influenced: While "critter" was widely understood, variations in slang and terms could exist across different regions of the vast Western territories.
For a broader understanding of terms used in the Old West, one might explore various historical cowboy glossaries or dictionaries of Western Americana.
Beyond "Critter": Other Common Cowboy Terms for Horses
While "critter" was a general term, cowboys also used other descriptive names for their horses, often reflecting the horse's qualities or role:
- Pony: Often used generally, especially for smaller or agile horses.
- Mount: Referring to the horse specifically as something to ride.
- Cayuse: A term with Native American origins, often used for a range horse or an Indian pony.
- Steed: A more formal or poetic term for a horse, less common in daily cowboy slang but understood.
- Bronc or Bronco: Specifically for an untamed or partially tamed horse that requires breaking.
- Mustang: A wild horse of the American West, often caught and tamed by cowboys.
These terms illustrate the rich vocabulary cowboys developed to describe their essential companions on the frontier.
